Bishop Victor Bendico of Baguio has joined moves against the operation of more “e-bingo” sites in the city of Baguio and in other areas of Benguet province.
In a pastoral letter issued on April 23, Friday, the prelate said to even think about gambling during the pandemic is “degrading and troublesome.”
“We, the faithful of the Diocese of Baguio, strongly oppose the proposal to have more bingo stalls in the city of Baguio to include the province of Benguet,” said Bishop Bendico.
He said the diocese has consistently opposed gambling, adding that it creates “havoc in many families.”
The diocese has also launched a signature campaign to drum up calls against more “e-bingo” operations.
“May we then be united to oppose the opening of other gambling areas where hopeful citizens can be lured to lose their money to the detriment of their families,” said the bishop.
“Let us continue to act and to fight gambling that destroys life, wreaks havoc on communities, and promotes greed and addiction,” he added.
The city council has earlier passed resolutions approving the request of an entertainment company to operate “e-bingo” and other games authorized by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong of Baguio, however, rejected the resolutions citing the lack of public consultation.
