The Philippine National Police (PNP) has apprehended 1,245 suspects as part of a massive anti-illegal gambling operation targeting e-sabong.
According to a report by Philippine News Agency (PNA), the operation ran from 1 July 2022 until 15 August 2023 and saw various police regional offices and national support units work together in identifying and tracking down e-sabong operators.
E-sabong, or online cockfighting, was banned by former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte in May 2022 before his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, issued an Executive Order officially extending the ban in December. This followed the disappearance of at least 34 people linked to the controversial blood sport.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. commended the dedication of the police operatives and the profound impact of their actions.
“The extensive crackdown on e-sabong illegal gambling underscores our unwavering commitment to the rule of law, said PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr.
“The significant number of arrests demonstrates that the PNP remains steadfast in maintaining peace and order in our communities. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who violate the law, ensuring that justice prevails for the betterment of society.”
Acorda had previously announced an “intensified crackdown” on illegal gambling activities, including the implementation of a “one-strike and no-take policy” under which he promised to stand down and take administrative action against any police officials who fail to take adequate action to prevent and crack down on such illegal activities within their areas of supervision.
News of this week’s arrests included confirmation that 437 cases have been referred to prosecutors and 808 cases to the courts for further legal action.
Another 348 suspects had already been apprehended with 123 referred to prosecutors and 225 forwarded to the courts for prosecution, PNA said.
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