Camp Crame Quezon City – The Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (IMEG), through its Visayas Field Unit (VFU), apprehended an active police officer and a civilian companion in a law enforcement operation for violation of Presidential Decree 1602 (Illegal Gambling), locally known as “Hantak.” The operation was conducted at around 4:30 PM on October 5, 2025, in Purok Naludhan, Barangay Dawis, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental.

The operation stemmed from a confidential report received by IMEG regarding the involvement of an active PNP personnel in illegal gambling activities in the area. Acting on the verified information, IMEG operatives, in coordination with the 4th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion-NIR and the Bayawan City Police Station, Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office, PRO NIR conducted an anti-illegal gambling operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspects while caught in the act playing Hantak.

Recovered from the scene were a PNP-issued firearm, ammunition, a police identification card, and marked money used during the operation. All items were properly inventoried and documented in the presence of witnesses.

The arrested police personnel and his civilian co-player were brought to Bayawan City Police Station for documentation and proper disposition. Corresponding criminal and administrative cases are being prepared against the erring police officer.

In a statement, PBGEN BONARD D BRITON, Director, IMEG, underscored that this operation demonstrates IMEG’s commitment to uphold the integrity of the police service and rid its ranks of those involved in illegal activities.

“This serves as a strong warning that the PNP will never tolerate any form of misconduct or illegal activity within its organization. We will continue to enforce the law without fear or favor — because genuine service requires accountability”, PBGEN BRITON said.

He likewise urged the public to be active partners in promoting integrity and discipline within the police force by reporting any illegal activities involving PNP personnel by scanning the E-Sumbong QR Code posted in IMEG’s official Facebook page or by contacting its hotlines 0998-970-2286 / 0995-795-2569.

IMEG stands in full support of the PNP’s intensified campaign against all forms of illegal activities, reaffirming its commitment to ensure that those entrusted with enforcing the law remain true to their oath of service. Through continuous operations and strong community partnership, IMEG strives to strengthen public trust and uphold the integrity of the Philippine National Police. ###