PNP Regional Office Director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin (left) and Col. Joey Escanillas, 302nd Brigade commander. (Contributed photo)
DUMAGUETE CITY – The 302nd Brigade of the Philippine Army and the Police Regional Office 7 on Friday afternoon jointly vowed to step up measures against illegal drugs and illegal gambling, with focus on e-sabong.
Col. Joey Escanillas, brigade commander, and PRO 7 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin held a closed-door meeting at the brigade headquarters in Camp Leon Kilat, Tanjay City in Negros Oriental, a day after a Senate committee wrapped up its investigation concerning the slaying of Governor Roel Degamo and other killings in the province.
The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs pointed to e-sabong and other illegal activities as the alleged reasons for some murder incidents and political rivalries in Negros Oriental.
Some policemen in Negros Oriental were also implicated in the e-sabong operations tagged as bagmen and were receiving protection money from the illegal activity.
The Philippine Army and PRO7 officials are expected to sign a formal statement condemning e-sabong operations.
They have reassured witnesses in the killings of their safety as they return to Negros Oriental after testifying in the Senate hearings this week. (PNA)
