Definition of Exempt Games
- Games excluded from the prohibition include domino, bingo, poker (except when played as five cards stud), cuajo, pangguingue, and mahjong.
- The exemption applies only when these games are played as parlor games or for home entertainment.
Conditions for Exemption
- The games must not be played in venues habitually used for gambling activities.
- Betting related to these games must not be disguised or manipulated to circumvent the intent of Presidential Decree No. 1602.
- The primary purpose of playing these games should be entertainment within a private or non-commercial context.
Authority and Enforcement
- The directive is issued by the President of the Philippines, instructing the Minister of National Defense, the Minister of Local Government and Community Development, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, the Chief of Constabulary, the Director-General of the HP, and the Chairman of the Task Force Anti-Gambling to enforce these guidelines.
Legal Implications
- The order clarifies that while gambling is generally prohibited under Presidential Decree No. 1602, certain traditional or social games are allowed if played under specified conditions.
- This distinction aims to prevent abuse of the law while respecting cultural and social practices involving these games.
Procedural Notes
- Responsible government officials and agencies are mandated to ensure compliance with the directive.
- Monitoring is implied to prevent misuse of the exemption for gambling purposes under the guise of home entertainment.
Penalties and Enforcement
- Although specific penalties are not detailed in this directive, violations related to gambling prohibitions under Presidential Decree No. 1602 remain applicable.
- The directive strengthens enforcement by clarifying what constitutes lawful entertainment versus unlawful gambling.