The Philippine National Police (PNP) is strengthening its community intelligence efforts to dismantle illegal gambling operations across the country, PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Tuesday.

The move aligns with a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., issued through Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to step up the campaign against illegal gambling networks nationwide.

Nartatez said tip-offs from residents remain one of the most effective tools for identifying illicit gambling operations that persist in various regions.

“Illegal gambling breeds other crimes — from domestic violence to theft, robbery and even crimes against persons,” Nartatez said. “And this is the reason why your PNP has been very aggressive in its campaign as manifested by our monthly accomplishment reports.”

In July, police arrested 9,401 individuals and confiscated more than P3.2 million worth of bet money and gambling paraphernalia during intensified operations nationwide.

Nartatez stressed that the crackdown extends beyond Metro Manila, with police resources mobilized in municipalities, provinces and remote communities where illegal gambling thrives.

“Our operations are not only focused in Metro Manila,” he said. “The same level of aggressive operations has been ongoing in municipalities and provinces, including far-flung areas.”

He also cited that police crime data shows a direct link between illegal gambling and the commission of other offenses.

Dismantling these networks, he added, will help improve overall peace and order in local communities.