By JB Barrios, Regional News Correspondent (Bicol)

JOVELLAR, Albay — Jovellar Mayor Jorem Arcangel has asked provincial and police authorities to investigate reported jueteng operations allegedly entering the municipality, prompting the Albay Police Provincial Office (PPO) to conduct verification and investigation.

In a letter obtained by Republika News, dated Sept. 3 addressed to Albay Gov. Noel Rosal, with the attention of Albay PPO Provincial Director PCol. Noel Donato Nuñez, Arcangel reported alleged jueteng activities in Jovellar.

The mayor said the operations were reportedly being conducted discreetly in the town center and far-flung barangays, with alleged jueteng operators or “cabo” entering the municipality from neighboring Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, and Pioduran.

Arcangel also cited information discussed during a Mayors’ League of Albay meeting regarding reported jueteng operations in the province allegedly being conducted under the guise of Small Town Lottery (STL).

He called for intensified monitoring and enforcement in the poblacion and far-flung barangays, coordination with neighboring municipalities to prevent the reported entry of jueteng operators, and sustained measures to preserve Jovellar’s declared status as a drug-free and jueteng-free municipality.

In an interview cited by the Albay PPO, Arcangel said a similar letter was also sent to Police Regional Office 5 Regional Director PBGen. Randy Glenn G. Silvio.

Upon receiving the letter, the Albay PPO said personnel from its Provincial Intelligence Unit, in coordination with the Jovellar Municipal Police Station under newly designated officer-in-charge PCapt. Bryan Pallan, immediately conducted verification and investigation into the reports.

Nuñez thanked the Jovellar municipal government for bringing the matter to police attention and said the provincial police would take action against illegal gambling activities.

Police authorities are also coordinating with residents to identify individuals who may be involved in the reported operations.

Those found violating the law will face appropriate charges, police said.