Law Summary
Definition of Terms
- Defines critical terms such as "Illegal Numbers Game," "Jueteng," "Masiao," and "Last Two" as specific forms of illicit gambling.
- Clarifies roles including bettors, personnel, collectors, coordinators, maintainers, financiers, and protectors involved in illegal operations.
Punishable Acts
- Penalties vary by involvement: from 30 days to 20 years imprisonment depending on the role from bettor to protector.
- Usage of property for illegal games attracts same penalties as direct involvement.
Possession of Gambling Paraphernalia or Materials
- Possession of paraphernalia or materials used in illegal numbers operations is prima facie evidence of offense.
Liability of Government Employees and/or Public Officials
- Government officials involved face 12 to 20 years imprisonment, heavy fines (P3M to P5M), and lifetime disqualification from office.
- Officials who tolerate illegal games face disqualification.
- Law enforcement officials failing to act face suspension or dismissal.
Liability of Parents/Guardians
- Imprisonment or fines imposed on those who induce minors or dependents to engage in illegal numbers games.
- Conviction results in deprivation of authority over the minor or ward.
Recidivism
- Repeat offenders face penalties one degree higher than the usual prescribed sanctions.
Immunity from Prosecution
- Witnesses aiding government prosecution are granted immunity under specified laws and applicable court rules.
Prosecution, Judgment and Forfeiture of Property
- Offenses may be prosecuted alongside other penal laws.
- Assets used or acquired through illegal acts are subject to confiscation and forfeiture.
- Assets disproportionate to lawful income are presumed to be from illegal sources.
Witness Protection
- Individuals providing material information are entitled to protection under the Witness Protection Program.
Informer's Reward
- Informants revealing information leading to conviction may receive monetary or valuable rewards determined by DOJ, DILG, and NAPOLCOM.
- Rewards system extends to law enforcement and local officials aiding enforcement.
Implementing Rules and Regulations
- DILG, DOJ, NAPOLCOM, and other agencies must promulgate necessary rules within 60 days to enforce the Act efficiently.
Separability Clause
- Declared invalid provisions do not impair the rest of the Act, which remains effective.
Amendatory Clause
- Amends inconsistencies in Presidential Decree No. 1602 related to illegal numbers games.
Repealing Clause
- Repeals laws and regulations inconsistent with this Act.
Effectivity
- Act becomes effective 15 days after publication in two national newspapers.