Laguna, Batangas govs invited to house hearing on illegal gambling

By Thiago Santos Laguna Gov. Hernandez and Batangas Gov. Mandanas (Photo from NEDA) MANILA - The House Committee on Public Order and Saf...

By Thiago Santos

Laguna Gov. Hernandez and Batangas Gov. Mandanas (Photo from NEDA)

MANILA - The House Committee on Public Order and Safety will summon Laguna Gov. Ramil Hernandez and Batangas Gov. Hermilando Mandanas to address the reported rise of illegal gambling in their provinces.

The decision follows a motion by House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo, who emphasized the governors' authority in curbing such activities. "If a governor wants to stop gambling in their territory, it will stop. Their word is law," Tulfo asserted.



Tulfo's motion came after Philippine National Police (PNP) Regional Director BGen. Paul Kennet Lucas acknowledged the importance of political will in combating illegal gambling. He affirmed that law enforcement would comply with directives from governors and mayors to eradicate these operations.

"We need to speak directly with the governors, starting with the governor of Laguna. I want to understand why gambling persists in his jurisdiction," Tulfo stated.

The committee secretariat will extend formal invitations to both governors. Tulfo also emphasized the need for cooperation and coordination between local officials and law enforcement to effectively address the issue of illegal gambling. The committee will schedule a meeting with the governors to discuss strategies for enforcement and compliance.

Additionally, Abang Lingkod party-list Rep. Joseph Stephen Paduano requested subpoenas for Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Mel Robles and PCSO Board of Director Jennifer Guevara. Paduano cited their repeated absences from hearings without providing valid reasons.