La Union police welcome probe into OIC’s alleged gambling protection
The La Union Police Provincial Office says it is willing to face investigation into allegations its officer-in-charge protects illegal gambling, including peryahan activities.Summary
The La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO) has expressed willingness to undergo an investigation into allegations that its officer-in-charge is protecting illegal gambling operations, particularly peryahan activities in several municipalities in the province. In a statement, LUPPO said it takes the allegations seriously and stressed that accusations of possible police involvement in illegal activities deserve proper attention and objective assessment. It emphasized that the Philippine National Police does not tolerate corruption, abuse of authority, or involvement in unlawful activities, but cautioned against treating the allegations as established facts without sufficient evidence, stressing that accusations against public officials must be supported by credible information and subjected to appropriate investigative and administrative proceedings. LUPPO also maintained that fairness, due process, and the presumption of innocence must be observed, and said it will cooperate with legitimate investigations by appropriate government agencies, including the 8888 Citizens' Complaint Center and other oversight institutions. It encouraged individuals with relevant documents, concrete evidence, or information to come forward to help establish the truth and determine whether any personnel may be held accountable, and reiterated that enforcing laws against illegal gambling remains part of its responsibility, committed to carrying out its mandate without fear or favor. The statement comes amid circulating allegations concerning supposed protection of illegal gambling operations in parts of La Union, although LUPPO did not identify the specific municipalities involved or provide details on whether an investigation has already been initiated.
(Source：Daily Tribune)