Camp Col Rafael C. Rodriguez, Libertad, Butuan City — The intensified anti-illegal gambling campaign of the Police Regional Office 13 (PRO13) across Caraga Region has led to the arrest of 24 individuals and the confiscation of over ₱22,000 in bet money from June 1 to 24, 2025.
PBGen Christopher N. Abrahano, Regional Director of PRO13, confirmed that the arrested suspects included bettors, ushers, and players caught engaging in various forms of illegal gambling, including swertres, tong-its (a local card game), tukis-tukis (illegal cockfighting), and Lucky 9.
Authorities seized a total of ₱22,062 during the operations, and the suspects now face charges for violating Republic Act No. 9287, which increases penalties for those involved in illegal numbers games and amends certain provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1602.
This recent crackdown is part of PRO13’s sustained effort to curb illegal gambling in the region. From January 1 to May 31, 2025, PRO13 had already apprehended 359 individuals and seized ₱275,268 worth of bet money. The year-to-date figures now stand at 383 arrests and ₱297,330 in confiscated gambling proceeds.
“This should serve as a stern warning to everyone—do not engage in illegal activities, or you will be put behind bars,” said PBGen Abrahano. “Use your hard-earned money to support your family’s needs or invest in more important matters.”
PRO13 continues to call on the public to report any suspicious gambling operations in their communities as part of its commitment to maintaining peace and order in Caraga.