Defensor opposes ‘jueteng’ legalization
Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr. said he is opposing the proposal to legalize the controversial numbers game “jueteng.”
Defensor said “jueteng” is just like the Small Town Lottery (STL) so there is no need to make it legal.
“Jueteng” is said to be very pervasive in several Luzon provinces.
In Iloilo, illegal numbers games like “daily double” and and “first-two-ball” are also popular.
Defensor said that if STL will be implemented well and made competitive, the public will no longer be inclined to bet on “jueteng” and similar numbers game thus, illegal gambling operations will be reduced.
Although STL is legal, its operator is only licensed to collect bets in Iloilo City, not in Iloilo province.
Defensor, however, said he has received information that a franchisee has been given license by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office to operate STL in the province.
For some reason, however, the PCSO has reportedly held in abeyance the operation of STL in Iloilo province.
Defensor had earlier said if majority of Ilonggos want STL to operate in Iloilo province, he will follow the voice of the people.
But he said a public hearing and consultation should be conducted first.
“STL is legal and there’s nothing wrong with it. I’m only against illegal numbers games,” he also said.*with reports from PNA
