THE illegal operation of Jai Alai in Bacolod City got the immediate attention of Mayor Evelio R. Leonardia, saying the city will not welcome such illegal activity to prosper.
Leonardia directed Bacolod City Police Director Celestino Guarra to take the necessary action to stop this illegal operation, which has spread in some areas in the city and also in the province of Negros Occidental.
Many public officials have also expressed opposition against Jai Alai like third district Representative Alfredo “Albee” Benitez.
Reports of the illegal operation of Jai Alai nationwide have alarmed several sectors of the community because of the ill effects of gambling, especially to the poor, whose hopes are normally anchored on gambling.
rMeanwhile, Leonardia will also check with the city’s Permits and License Division whether there is truth in the reports that there is an applicant for the Jai Alai operation in the city.
If there is, he will refer this matter to the City Legal Officer, the mayor said.