15 persons nabbed for cockfighting

CEBU, Philippines —  The Lapu-Lapu City Police Office (LLCPO) has arrested 15 persons for illegal cockfighting at Sitio Tungdon in Barangay Basak, days after the city had transitioned from Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) to General Community Quarantine (GCQ).

The arrest happened last Saturday afternoon, following a report from a concerned citizen that an illegal cockfighting, commonly known as tigbakay, has been going on in the area.

Police Colonel Carlito Baja, LLCPO director, said there is a possibility that these people who were arrested, aged 20 to 30 years old, must have taken advantage of the lifting of the ECQ and had organized the illegal cockfighting.

Baja said police visibility in the barangays will remain to make sure that these illegal activities are monitored.

Those arrested will be charged with violating PD 1602.

Meanwhile, Baja has expressed gratitude of the people’s cooperation in the mandatory wearing of masks and social distancing, despite the reopening of the establishments.

“Ni-follow na ang nga tawo pud.  Katong nga tindahan na pwede na mag-abri, okay ra man pud,” Baja said.

He, however, added that there were some that were warned.

Baja added that the quarantine control points (QCP) or checkpoints will remain in the streets, as the authorities would still be checking the requirements of those who will be entering and going out of the city, especially those who were stranded in the city that will be going home into their respective provinces.

In terms of public transportation, Baja said the police, in coordination with the Land Transportation Office, are also monitoring that proper social distancing are observed.

At present, the drivers reportedly are complying with and abiding by these regulations. GAN (FREEMAN)