University apologizes for carnival snafu

Saturday, February 11, 2012

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – Despite orders by Mayor Greg Abalos for closure, a gambling joint posing as a carnival continues to thrive.

The carnival is operating in the vicinity of Barangay Betag within the Marketing Area of the Benguet State University (BSU) set for 30 days starting February 15.

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Abalos wrote BSU president Ben Ladilad on Monday asking him to close down the carnival operating without any permit.

On Wednesday, Abalos wrote BSU anew saying: “We advise your good office not to allow the operation of the carnival until a mayor’s permit is issued.”

Abalos said if BSU communicated the matter, the operations would not have been allowed stating the mounting opposition on carnivals as alleged fronts to gambling activities.

Ladilad apologized to the chief executive for the lapse in judgment but said the agreement was for carnival operator Camilo Tacbas to secure a mayors permit before operations.

Ladilad likewise said the agreement was for the carnival to operate only entertainment games and rides, no part of the pact allows gambling.

“May we appeal to your good office to please allow us reasonable time to observe how the establishment be managed,” Abalos said.

Previously, the carnival operated in Puguis area but with licenses from the Municipal Government. (Ma. Elena Catajan)