Sabangan officials ban slot machines operation

SABANGAN, Mountain Province -- Possession and operation of slot machines or similar gambling device, apparatus or technology is not allowed in this town anymore.

 The Sangguniang Bayan recently approved the “Anti-Slot Machine/Kulalong Ordinance,” penalizing any person or group of persons who have in their possession slot machines or “kulalong” and other similar gambling devices in this municipality.

This is to address the concern of parents, guardians and teachers that one factor of poor scholastic performance of students is due to their patronage of gambling devices. For adults, its effects include creating trouble within family and community.

Under the ordinance, police officers, barangay officials and barangay tanods are authorized to confiscate slot machine or similar gambling device from any business establishment, private homes or quarters.

Any person, establishment or entity that is found in violation of this ordinance shall be fined amount not exceeding P2,500 to be immediately paid to the Office of the Municipal Treasurer after the confiscation of the device, or by imprisonment of not less than 30 days, or both upon the discretion of the court. -- Juliet B. Saley