Solon warns of illegal jueteng resurgence in Albay

AKO BICOL Party-list Rep. Alfredo A. Garbin Jr. has raised alarm over the alleged resurgence of illegal jueteng operations in Albay, warning of massive losses in public funds intended for charity.

In a recent privilege speech at the House of Representatives, Garbin said the issue stemmed from the abrupt termination of Small Town Lottery (STL) operations in the province in December 2025, despite the operator having a valid permit until October 2026.

He estimated that the shutdown resulted in a ₱40 million monthly remittance loss to the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office.

“When that lawful revenue is cut off, the people bleed,” Garbin said.

Garbin said the termination of STL operations was done without a clear, lawful or transparent explanation. He warned that the closure of a legal, regulated and charity-generating system created a vacuum that was quickly filled by illegal gambling activities.

The lawmaker cited allegations that a group reportedly known as “ZagNim” is being allowed to operate jueteng in the province.

According to Garbin, “Zag” is allegedly linked to Jun Alegre, whom he described as a political ally and former vice gubernatorial running mate of Albay Gov. Noel E. Rosal.

“Nim” is allegedly linked to Alwing Nimo, whom Garbin identified as a self-confessed jueteng payola payor in past controversies.

Garbin also mentioned Albay Police Provincial Director Col. Noel Nuñez in connection with alleged instructions reportedly relayed to local police units regarding jueteng operations.

He further disclosed that several municipal mayors allegedly received requests from Nimo seeking clearance to operate in their respective areas.

Garbin cited what he described as a recurring pattern under the administration of Gov. Rosal, wherein legal STL operations are halted and illegal jueteng activities re-emerge.

He recalled that in July 2022, shortly after assuming office, Rosal issued a cease and desist order against STL operations in Albay. The shutdown prompted the operator to file a criminal case against the governor, which Garbin said remains pending before a Regional Trial Court in Quezon.

He said the December 2025 termination of STL operations mirrors the earlier incident.

“The legal STL is stopped — and jueteng resurfaces with alarming speed and boldness,” Garbin said.

Garbin called on the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Philippine National Police, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, the National Bureau of Investigation and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office to conduct an immediate, impartial and thorough investigation into the alleged involvement of public officials and law enforcement personnel.

He also urged the House of Representatives to initiate inquiries in aid of legislation.

Garbin said the issue goes beyond local politics and involves public trust, public funds and the integrity of the rule of law.

“Illegal gambling thrives only when law enforcement is compromised and political power shields criminal activity,” he added.