Police Arrests Several Men Gambling During Wake
Several men were caught by police while gambling during a wake in Sampaloc, Manila, in an operation aimed at keeping public order in busy areas of the city.
Authorities said the men were arrested on the spot while playing cards near the wake. It was later found that some of them were actually relatives of the deceased. Despite this, police still carried out the arrest, reminding the public that gambling in public places, even during a wake, is not allowed.
One of those arrested shared that they were not aware that gambling during a wake was prohibited. They believed that since it was a common activity in some gatherings, it would be acceptable.
“Unang una, dumaan po yung barangay, dapat sinabihan nila kami na bawal. Kung alam namin bawal pala kahit may patay, hindi na kami nag-ano kasi ang lakas naman ng loob namin kung magsusugal kami sa labas ng kalsada,” he said.
However, police explained that such activities can still violate local ordinances, especially when done in public areas like streets.
The operation was part of a wider effort by the Barbosa Police Station to ensure safety in the University Belt, an area known for its large student population. On the same day, more than 50 individuals were apprehended for various violations around the area.
Many of those arrested were caught drinking alcohol in public spaces, which is also not allowed under city rules. Authorities emphasized that these operations are important to keep the streets safe, especially for students who regularly pass through the area.
Several minors were also picked up for violating curfew hours. They were brought to the barangay and later fetched by their parents or guardians.
The Manila Police District said that these operations will continue across different parts of the city. Just last Tuesday, more than 1,000 individuals were caught for various offenses. A large number of them were cited for smoking in public places.
In a previous report, over 1,000 individuals apprehended in ‘safer Metro Manila’ operations
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