By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) ordered all carnivals, locally known as “peryahan,” to halt their alleged gambling operations in the city.

BCPO director, Police Colonel Noel Aliño said he wants to eliminate illegal gambling activities in city villages, saying it is one of the primary sources of conflicts in the community.

Aliño added that he will not allow any gambling activities, especially the color game “pula puti,” during barangay fiestas, as bettors placed a significant amount of money on gambling.

He also warned gambling stall owners that they might face arrest and charges if they persist with their operations.

Aliño said he prefers to see more amusement rides instead of gambling stalls.

He also mentioned that he might remove village officials from their posts who would fail to stop illegal gambling activities within their respective areas./DGB, WDJ