ALL forms of gambling, even during wakes, remain prohibited in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Mayor Romeo Salda, through an executive order, said the town condemns "the existence of illegal gambling activities as a widespread social menace and source of corruption, as it has become an influential factor in an individual's disregard for the value of dignified work, perseverance and thrift."
He said the local government is exerting all efforts to adopt more stringent measures to stop and eradicate the existence of illegal games in the town.
Salda, in his executive order, directed the La Trinidad Municipal Police Station, Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams and La Trinidad Women's Brigade to step up efforts and increase vigilance against all forms of illegal gambling, including gambling during wakes.
The youth and all community members are also enjoined to report illegal activities to the police and the mayor's office.
Salda anchored his executive order to the existing order of President Rodrigo Duterte in 2017 that seeks to strengthen the fight against illegal gambling.
Benguet Police Provincial Office Director Colonel Elmer Ragay has vowed continuous operations against illegal gambling in the province.