Not a harmless pastime

FAR FROM being merely a vice or a harmless pastime, illegal gambling is a complex problem that can inflict severe damage on communities, undermining social norms, economic stability, and the rule of law. In Iloilo province, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. called on the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) and the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to ramp up efforts against illegal gambling following the termination of the Small Town Lottery (STL) operator by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

The cessation of operations by the licensed STL operator threatens to leave a vacuum that could easily be filled by unauthorized gambling activities, particularly “bookies”. The concern is that illegal gambling tends to proliferate in the absence of regulated options, posing significant risks to community welfare and order.

The adverse effects of illegal gambling on communities are profound. Economically, it diverts money from legitimate businesses and reduces government revenue, which could otherwise be used for public services. Socially, it can lead to addiction, with the associated costs of broken families, increased crime, and the deterioration of mental health. Moreover, illegal gambling operations often have ties to other criminal activities, including drug trafficking and violence, further endangering community safety and well-being.

There must be a sustained and aggressive police campaign against illegal gambling. It is not enough to sporadically address the issue; continuous monitoring and enforcement actions are essential to deter the emergence and growth of unlawful gambling operations. This approach is critical not only for preserving public order but also for safeguarding the moral fabric of communities, which can be eroded by the normalization of illegal activities.

The potential questioning of IPPO’s performance points to a broader need for accountability and transparency in law enforcement’s efforts against illegal gambling. Success in this area should be measurable, with clear benchmarks for evaluating the effectiveness of police operations. Public confidence in law enforcement’s ability to tackle illegal gambling is paramount for the cooperation and support of the community, which are critical components of any successful anti-gambling strategy.