NORTHMAN Gaming Corporation (NGC) announced plans to file administrative, criminal, and injunction cases against Tagum City officials, accusing the local government of illegally confiscating its Small Town Lottery (STL) booths.
In a phone interview today, NGC legal counsel Atty. Christian Villanueva said the cases would be filed on Monday, January 20, before the Tagum Regional Trial Court.
The dispute stems from the city’s seizure of 68 STL booths, which Tagum City Administrator Edgar De Guzman said was part of the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) “Hapsay Dalan” campaign and the city’s “No Obstruction” ordinance.
De Guzman claimed NGC failed to provide a lease contract proving its booths were located on private property.
Villanueva refuted the city’s stance, asserting that NGC is not obligated to submit its lease contracts.
“Unang-una hindi namin kailangan mag submit. Sila ang nag confiscate. Sila dapat ang magpatunay na nasa public property kami (NGC),” said Villanueva.
He further clarified that NGC has valid lease agreements with property owners, rendering the contracts outside the local government’s jurisdiction.
“Meron kaming lease contract but its an agreement between us and the owner of the property,” said Villanueva.
Despite NGC’s claims, the Tagum city government said it stands by its actions and is prepared to face any legal challenges.
“We will continue to enforce the Hapsay Dalan campaign and No Obstruction ordinance,” De Guzman said.
NGC, an authorized lotto agent of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), operates approximately 400 booths, with 68 allegedly confiscated in the recent crackdown.
Villanueva emphasized that all booths are situated on private property.
The legal battle is expected to escalate, with both sides resolute in their positions.
