The 302nd Brigade of the Philippine Army and the Police Regional Office in Central Visays (PRO-7) yesterday afternoon jointly vowed to step up measures against illegal drugs and illegal gambling, with focus on e-sabong.

Brigade commander Colonel Joey Escanillas and PRO-7 regional director Brigadier General Anthony Aberin held a closed-door meeting at the brigade headquarters in Camp Leon Kilat in Negros Oriental’s Tanjay City, a day after a Senate committee wrapped up its investigation concerning the slaying of Governor Roel Degamo and other killings in the province.

The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs pointed to e-sabong and other illegal activities as the alleged reasons for some murder incidents and political rivalries in Negros Oriental.

Some policemen in Negros Oriental were also implicated in the e-sabong operations, tagged as bagmen and were receiving protection money from the illegal activity.

The Philippine Army and PRO-7 officials are expected to sign a formal statement condemning e-sabong operations.

They have reassured witnesses in the killings of their safety as they returned to Negros Oriental after testifying in the Senate hearings this week. (PNA)