In a sweeping crackdown on illegal gambling activities, a 74-year-old grandmother, along with 11 other individuals, was apprehended during coordinated police operations across various locations in Cebu Province on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. The intensified efforts by law enforcement targeted multiple hotspots, resulting in significant arrests and confiscations of illicit materials.
Details of the Arrests
The operation commenced in the parking area for habal-habal motorcycles in Barangay Central Poblacion, Dumanjug, where the elderly woman, identified only as alias Lola Maria, was taken into custody at 7:00 PM. Authorities seized P125 in cash proceeds and various gambling paraphernalia from her possession. During questioning, Lola Maria confessed that she was compelled to engage in illegal swertres operations due to severe financial hardships, aiming to support her family's daily consumption needs.
Additional Suspects and Locations
Beyond Lola Maria, the police operations netted several other suspects across different municipalities. In separate incidents, two mothers, referred to as "Linda" and "Lucia," were also arrested, both attributing their involvement in illegal gambling to dire poverty as a primary motivator.
Further arrests included individuals in Barili City, identified as "Zandra," "Zaldy" (age 43), and "Noli" (age 48). In Carmen City, suspects "Roland" (age 38) and "Lito" (age 43) were detained. Additionally, in Tabuelan City, ushers named "Ariel" and "Richard" were apprehended, while in Talisay City, three gamblers were caught playing tong-its in Sityo Kilawan, Barangay Tanke.
Legal Consequences and Warnings
All arrested individuals, including Lola Maria, have been charged with violations under Republic Act 9287, also known as the Anti-Illegal Number Games Act of 2006. This legislation imposes stricter penalties on those involved in illegal gambling activities, such as masiao and illegal swertres, emphasizing the government's commitment to curbing such practices.
The Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) issued a stern warning to the public, urging citizens to refrain from participating in illegal gambling operations. Authorities emphasized that individuals caught engaging in these activities will face immediate arrest and prosecution, highlighting the ongoing efforts to maintain law and order in the region.
