The Provincial Government of Tarlac led by Governor Susan Yap, Vice Governor Carlito David and the 13 board members issued a statement condemning the illegal online gambling in the municipality of Bamban.
The statement, issued on May 10 unequivocally denounces any and all forms of illegal online gambling. They stated that their stance on the matter remains steadfast, and has always been consistent.
According to the provincials, as early as 2021, the Province, in Sangguniang Panlalawigan Resolution No. 10 -2021 issued January 14, 2021, has already clearly condemned reported illegal offshore online gambling activities reported in the municipality of Bamban.
“This is in line with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation’s (PAGCOR) press release dated September 25, 2020, where the public was once again advised not to engage in any unauthorized gambling activities offered by unscrupulous individuals and groups. While illegal gambling per se is not among the predicate crimes of Money Laundering, frauds and swindling are. These are based on the act of taking bets from the public by falsely representing that they have a legitimate business, when in fact, they have no such authority,” the statement read.
“The Provincial Government of Tarlac strictly maintains its policy of adherence to the rule of law and does not countenance any act contrary thereto. Illegal gambling in whatever form, is strongly denounced. Illegal online gambling poses dire economic consequences, as it deprives the government of potential tax revenue that could be utilized for public benefit. It jeopardizes the businesses of licensed and legal operators,” the statement further stated.
According to the provincial officials, the shadow economy created by these illegal operations also provides a venue for a plethora of several other crimes, such as underage gambling, money laundering, and fraud. Illegal online gambling is a breeding ground for online identity theft, online scams and internet fraud. Its continued operations allow illegal funds to remain undetected, undermining the integrity of our legal and financial system.
“Let it be clear that records of both the Provincial Government as well as of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan do not show any agreement or resolution authorizing any entity, public or private, local or foreign, to engage in or operate an online offshore gambling within the territorial jurisdiction of the Province of Tarlac,” their statement furthered.
The provincial officials said that all forms of illegal online offshore gambling is strongly condemned in the Province and affirmed their support in the government’s efforts aimed at eradicating illegal operations and the province shall continue to actively join and cooperate in all activities aimed at eradicating illegal online offshore gambling.—Arvin F. M. Cabalu/PIO
