Fifteen-Year-Old Arrested for Gambling and Drug Possession in Pasig

In a concerning incident in Pasig City, a 15-year-old boy, identified only as "Jan," was apprehended by local police during a routine foot patrol in Barangay Pinagbuhatan on June 10, 2025. Officers discovered Jan engaged in illegal gambling activities alongside several other individuals at approximately 5 a.m. While the others managed to flee, Jan was detained, and subsequent searches revealed he was in possession of a sachet of shabu, an illegal methamphetamine substance, along with gambling paraphernalia.

The Eastern Police District (EPD) confirmed that the minor's case is categorized under children in conflict with the law (CICL). As such, Jan has been handed over to the City Social Welfare Department and is facing charges related to illegal drug possession and gambling. This incident comes on the heels of another arrest in the same barangay, where a 16-year-old, nicknamed "Ken," was caught with over P1 million worth of illegal substances, including shabu and kush, on May 30, 2025, marking a disturbing trend among youth in the area.

According to a statement from Chief Inspector Maria Torres of the Pasig City Police, the rising incidence of youth involvement in drug-related activities and gambling poses significant challenges for law enforcement and community safety. "We are increasingly concerned about minors engaging in these dangerous activities, which not only jeopardize their futures but also impact the safety of the community," Torres stated.

Dr. Elena Cruz, a child psychology expert at the University of the Philippines, emphasized the implications of such behaviors on the youth's mental health. "Engaging in gambling and substance abuse at a young age can lead to long-term psychological issues and addiction patterns that are difficult to break," she said in a recent interview.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has been actively working on initiatives to address the issue of youth delinquency, including educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of drug use and gambling. According to the PNP's 2023 report, the number of minors involved in drug-related offenses has increased by 15% over the past two years, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.

In light of the alarming trends, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is advocating for stricter policies regarding the rehabilitation of minors involved in illegal activities. "We must create a supportive environment that addresses the root causes of such behaviors, rather than merely punishing the individuals," said Secretary Maria Clara Mendoza of the DSWD.

The increasing youth involvement in crime, particularly drug-related offenses, has raised eyebrows among various stakeholders, including parents, educators, and community leaders. Many are calling for a collaborative approach involving local government, law enforcement, and community organizations to create preventive strategies.

In conclusion, the arrest of Jan serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the youth in Pasig City and across the Philippines. With rising drug abuse and gambling among minors, it is imperative that authorities and community members work together to promote healthier lifestyles and safeguard the future of the nation's children. The long-term implications of failing to address these issues could be detrimental not only to the individuals involved but to society as a whole.