Councilor Bon-as pushes anti-Illegal gambling ordinance in Tabuk City; Violators to be penalized up to P10,000 and six months imprisonment

Tabuk City, Kalinga — Seeking to curb illegal gambling activities and protect residents from their harmful effects, Councilor Jayferson Bon-as is pushing for an ordinance that would prohibit the operation and patronage of drop ball, color games, and other forms of illegal gambling in the city.

According to the proposed measure, illegal gambling activities such as drop ball, color games, and similar unauthorized betting schemes have been observed in certain areas of Tabuk City, contributing to social disorder, financial exploitation, criminality, and the involvement of minors.

In an interview, Bon-as said the proposed ordinance aims to address the social and economic impacts of illegal gambling by strengthening local enforcement measures and imposing penalties on violators.

"It seeks to address the growing concerns associated with illegal gambling, including financial losses, family conflicts, criminal activities, and other social problems that negatively affect communities. Through this proposed ordinance, stricter regulations and penalties will be imposed on individuals who operate, facilitate, or participate in illegal gambling activities," said Bon-as.

Under the proposal, operators and organizers of illegal gambling activities may face fines ranging from ₱3,000 to ₱10,000 and imprisonment of up to six months, depending on the frequency of violations.

Players and bettors may likewise be penalized with fines, community service, or imprisonment for repeat offenses.

To ensure effective implementation, the ordinance provides for the creation of an enforcement task force composed of barangay officials, barangay tanods, and local police officers. The task force would be authorized to conduct inspections, seize gambling paraphernalia, and apprehend violators.

Once enacted, the proposed measure, titled the "Anti-Drop Ball and Illegal Gambling Ordinance of the City of Tabuk," is expected to strengthen the city's campaign against illegal gambling and help protect residents—particularly minors and other vulnerable sectors—from the social and economic harms associated with unauthorized betting activities.