Pro-STL execs face Bacolod clergy’s wrath

BACOLOD CITY—The diocese of Bacolod may have to hang tarpaulins again, this time identifying the city officials who voted for the operation of a Small Town Lottery (STL) in Bacolod City.

Fr. Ernie Larida, social action center director, warned that if the officials continued to allow the operation of STL, their names would be on the tarpaulins that would be hanged at the façade of San Sebastian Cathedral.

“We should not vote for these officials who promote gambling. Instead of creating more jobs for the people, they are creating a culture of gambling,” he said.

During a session on Wednesday, the Bacolod City council granted a resolution of no objection (Rono) to Super Lucky Beagler Inc., which planned to operate STL in the city.

Those who voted in favor of the resolution were Councilors Alex Paglumotan, Wilson Gamboa Jr., Noli Villarosa, Em Ang, Caesar Distrito and Roberto Rojas.

Councilors El Cid Familiaran and Sonya Verdeflor voted against the resolution.

Larida said the city council didn’t consult them before granting the Rono to Super Lucky Beagler Inc.

He said the Church is against any form of gambling.

“This will only make people poorer because they will bet their last money instead of buying their basic needs,” he said.

“The people, particularly the poor, will resort to gambling because they are jobless. If the leaders will find ways to provide more jobs, the people will not resort to gambling,” he said.

Councilor Ang said she respects the position of the Church but will always vote according to what her conscience dictates.

“I hope the Church also puts up tarpaulins if officials vote in favor of issues that will benefit and protect the people,” she said.

Ang said STL is not different from lotto or the casino, which were also given Rono by the council.