The head of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has promised “an intensified crackdown” on law enforcement officials who don’t work to prevent illegal gambling in the country.
According to the Philippine News Agency, General Benjamin Acorda made the announcement as part of his new “one-strike and no-take policy.” The policy “represents a zero-tolerance approach, where any negligence or inaction will be met with swift consequences,” Acorda said. “With this strong stance, the PNP aims to leave no room for leniency in eradicating the illegal gambling menace.”
Inside Asian Gaming reports that the policy will apply to all police, regional, provincial and district directors, chiefs of police, community precinct commanders and other leaders. Those found to be derelict in their duties will be fired and “charged administratively under the doctrine of command responsibility.”
Recently, the PNP and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) joined in the fight against all forms of illegal gambling, IAG reported.
“We will not tolerate the existence of illegal gambling activities that prey on the most vulnerable members of our society” Acorda said. “Together with PCSO, we will deploy all necessary resources and implement stringent measures to put an end to this menace.”
