Arroyo denies link to jueteng ops in Pampanga

MANILA, Philippines – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Tuesday hit back at those who accuse her administration of tolerating "jueteng" operations in her own province of Pampanga, a television report said. GMA News' "24 Oras" also reported that local officials of Pampanga led by Vice Governor Yeng Guiao have signed a manifesto expressing their support to President Arroyo. In front of her province mates, President Arroyo defended herself against accusations that she is benefiting from jueteng operations as alleged by Governor Ed Panlilio. “Fight against gambling is historic struggle that past administration had failed to complete and our administration is obligated to continue,” the President said as she ordered local officials and the police force to intensify the campaign against the popular illegal numbers game. She also appealed to her critics to "stop finger pointing and help one another." For his part, Guiao described as "black propaganda" President Arroyo's alleged involvement jueteng operations. "Gusto naming ipakita at patunayan na walang katotohanan iyong nabanggit ng ilang tao o ng isang tao,” said Guiao, obviously alluding to Panlilio. GMA News tried to get Panlilio’s comment, but he did not answer the calls. - Fidel Jimenez, GMANews.TV