Albay jueteng controversy deepens, residents urged crackdown on game

By Manuel T. Ugalde

LEGAZPI CITY --- The reported resurgence of illegal numbers games in Albay has prompted renewed calls for authorities to strengthen efforts against unauthorized gambling operations in the province.

The issue has drawn public attention amid concerns over the reported proliferation of betting activities associated with Small Town Lottery (STL) operations.

Whistle-blower Alwyn Nimo has recently posted a series of livestreams on social media discussing what he described as illegal gambling activities in Albay. His claims have drawn attention to the need for authorities to verify reports of unauthorized numbers games and determine whether any individuals or groups are involved.

Residents have appealed to the Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership and local authorities to intensify efforts against illegal gambling and ensure that authorized lottery operations are not being used for unlawful activities.

The controversy also comes amid previous discussions over the operation of STL in the province.

In February this year, Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin delivered a privilege speech in the House of Representatives concerning the curtailment of an STL franchise in Legazpi City.

Garbin said the STL operation had been generating about P45 million a month for the province and questioned why, despite the stoppage of the authorized lottery operation, illegal numbers games were reportedly continuing.

Gov. Noel Rosal, for his part, denied any involvement by his office in illegal gambling.

Rosal explained that the stoppage of the STL franchise was due to concerns over the operation’s failure to control STL bookies, which, he said, affected the share intended for local government units.

The controversy has also revived memories of former Albay provincial police commander Col. Ferdinand Lagman, whose tenure has been recalled by some residents for his campaign against illegal gambling.

In an interview with a national daily during his stint as provincial commander, Lagman reportedly discussed his efforts to suppress jueteng and his position that illegal gambling could not operate effectively without cooperation or arrangements involving law-enforcement personnel and local officials.

His experience has since been cited by some residents as an example of the importance of sustained law-enforcement efforts against illegal gambling.

The latest reports have likewise prompted calls for greater monitoring of STL-related activities, particularly betting outlets operating without proper authorization.

Authorities are expected to determine the accuracy of the allegations being circulated on social media and, where warranted, take appropriate action against those found to be violating the law.

For residents, the issue goes beyond the reported operation of illegal numbers games and underscores the need to protect legitimate government-authorized lottery operations from being associated with unauthorized gambling activities.

The renewed calls for a crackdown also highlight the importance of consistent enforcement, regardless of the individuals or groups involved, to prevent illegal gambling from taking root in communities across Albay.