53 arrested in illegal cockfight in Tabogon

CEBU, Philippines — Police arrested 53 persons who allegedly engaged in illegal cockfighting or “tigbakay” in Sitio EZ, Barangay Kal- anan, Tabogon, Cebu last Saturday afternoon despite the prevailing protocol for social distancing.

Police Lieutenant Colonel Randy Korret said they got the tip about the illegal activity when they were doing contact tracing for cops who may have been exposed to people found positive for coronavirus.

“Galing ito sa mga concerned citizens. Parang na-hit lang namin ito doon sa contact tracing, yung mag-contract tracing ang mga kasamahan natin, may nagsabi na at nag-question kung nagsabong ba. Yun na-trace naming (It came from the report of concerned citizens. We were contact-tracing when the cockfight was discovered),” said Korret.

A tipster had revealed that Barangay Kal-anan as the place where the tigbakay was happening.

According to initial investigation, some residents have told the police that the illegal cockfights have been taking place in their area even when Cebu province was still under an enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) for COVID-19. The province is now under general community quarantine (GCQ).

“Hindi to informal na (organized) kasi andami nyan, iba-ibang barangay kahit hindi taga-Tabogon, so ibig sabihin napa-forward yan sa ibang lugar na may ongoing na (illegal cockfighting),” said Korret.

All arrested suspects are currently detained in the Tabogon gymnasium where they also underwent booking procedures.

Seized from them were 17 pieces of fighting cock, P2,220 cash believed to be betting money, and ten pieces of gaff or “buwang”.

The suspects will be facing charges for violation of President Decree No. 1602 on illegal gambling and additional charge for violation of the GCQ protocols on social distancing and wearing of facemasks. KQD (FREEMAN)