The Bacolod City Council is clarifying the legal status and addressing various regulatory compliance and enforcement on Small Town Lottery (STL) operations in the city.
Councilor Dindo Ramos authored a resolution designating the entire city council as a committee of the whole to facilitate a comprehensive inquiry.
The resolution recently passed by the City Council invited representatives from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), City Permits and Licenses Office, City Legal Office, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to a committee hearing next week.
Ramos emphasized the need for transparency, accountability, and inter-agency collaboration, stating that STL operations—if legally permitted—must strictly comply with existing laws.
The councilor highlighted ongoing issues with illegal STL operations, which, despite having no business permits, are reportedly collecting bets without remitting revenues to the city.
He noted that these activities and other forms of gambling activities pose social, moral, and economic risks.
Last month, Ramos also passed a separate resolution urging the PNP, through Mayor Greg Gasataya, to intensify anti-illegal gambling operations, particularly against unauthorized STL operators.
The resolution cited the Local Government Code, which mandates local governments to maintain peace and order and ensure public safety.
It also underscored the PNP’s responsibility to enforce laws and ordinances, including those against illegal gambling.
Police Lt. Meller Dionio, spokesperson for the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), confirmed ongoing anti-illegal gambling operations.
He said they are awaiting the schedule of the hearing to provide further clarification on the issue.