Police authorities in Central Visayas have launched a massive and sustained offensive against illegal gambling activities across the region, resulting in the arrest of thousands this year.
Major Operations Yield Thousands of Arrests
The Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, under the command of Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, has reported a significant haul from its anti-illegal gambling campaign. From January 1 to November 27, 2025, law enforcement operations led to the apprehension of nearly 4,000 individuals involved in various forms of prohibited betting.
During this intensive period, PRO 7 personnel conducted a total of 1,807 targeted operations against illegal numbers games, with a primary focus on the popular but unlawful swertres. The crackdown also extended to other gambling forms, with 352 operations directed at hantak (coin tossing) and 256 operations against illegal card games. The combined efforts of these missions resulted in the confiscation of P578,621 in gambling money.
A Stern Warning from the Regional Chief
Brig. Gen. Maranan issued a firm and unambiguous message to both organizers and participants of illegal gambling dens. He emphasized that the Central Visayas police force has no intention of slowing down its arrest operations.
“Those who persist in operating or participating in illegal gambling should understand that PRO 7 is determined to stamp out these activities,” Maranan stated. “We will pursue every lead, conduct more operations and file appropriate charges without hesitation. Illegal gambling destroys families, encourages criminal elements and undermines community order. I urge everyone to stop now before the law catches up with you.”
The regional police chief also called on the community to bolster their efforts by being active partners in law enforcement. He encouraged citizens to report any illegal gambling activities in their neighborhoods, with an assurance that their identities would be protected.
Sustained Campaign for Community Safety
This heightened drive against illegal gambling is a core component of PRO 7’s broader strategy to strengthen its crime prevention and solution initiatives throughout Region 7. The police leadership views the eradication of these activities as critical to maintaining public order and safeguarding the welfare of families who suffer from the financial and social consequences of addiction.
The data from the eleven-month campaign underscores a clear and ongoing commitment to enforcing the law. With thousands of operations already executed and a clear directive from the top, the PRO 7 aims to create a lasting impact on community security by dismantling the networks that profit from illegal gambling.
