Cebu Police Intensify Campaign Against Illegal Number Games, Nab Coordinator and Mothers
In a concerted effort to combat illicit gambling activities, various police stations across the Province of Cebu have launched a heartfelt campaign targeting unauthorized swertres operations. This initiative has led to the apprehension of a coordinator and three mothers who were employed as ushers without proper authorization from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).
Coordinator Apprehended in Sibonga Municipality
In the municipality of Sibonga, authorities acted swiftly on Thursday afternoon, January 29, 2026, to arrest a suspect identified by the alias "Boy", a 35-year-old resident of Barangay Simala. The operation was conducted by the Sibonga Police Station under the leadership of OIC PCPT Henry C. Estoy. From Boy's position, law enforcement officers confiscated a writing pad used as a tally sheet, a ballpen, and earnings amounting to approximately P800.00. It was revealed that he served as a coordinator for bet collectors in the area, facilitating illegal gambling activities.
Mothers Arrested in Toledo City for Similar Offenses
Meanwhile, in Toledo City, two mothers were simultaneously apprehended at different locations on Wednesday afternoon, January 28, 2026. The first arrest occurred in Brgy. Sangi, where a suspect known as "Marie", aged 46, was taken into custody. Authorities recovered from her a bundle of stubs filled with number combinations and earnings of P240.00. Just ten minutes later, in Brgy. Poblacion, another mother identified as "Tes", 43 years old, was arrested. She was found in possession of stubs and earnings totaling P205.00.
Additional Arrest in Naga City Highlights Widespread Issue
Police in Naga City did not lag behind in their operations, apprehending a 26-year-old suspect with the alias "Lynlyn" in Brgy. Pangdan on Thursday, January 29. Intelligence operatives from the Naga Police seized P230.00 in earnings, a police bet buyer ticket, carbon paper, and other paraphernalia used for placing bets from Lynlyn. This arrest underscores the pervasive nature of illegal gambling across multiple localities in Cebu.
Motives and Legal Consequences for the Suspects
All three mothers provided similar explanations to authorities, citing unemployment and the desire to assist with family expenses and provide food for their children as their primary motivations. Despite these heartfelt reasons, police officials emphasized that their actions constitute a violation of the law. The suspects are now facing charges for contravening Republic Act No. 9287, which pertains to illegal number games. They are currently detained at their respective police stations as documentation is prepared for court proceedings.
This crackdown reflects the ongoing commitment of Cebu police to uphold legal standards and curb activities that undermine public order and welfare.
