13 nabbed for illegal cockfight

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Philippines — Thirteen persons were arrested for allegedly engaging in illegal gambling in Gapan City, Nueva Ecija on Sunday.

The suspects were caught holding an illegal cockfight in Barangay Maburak, according to Brig. Gen. Matthew Baccay, Central Luzon police director.

Some of the suspects scampered away and jumped into the river, but were caught by the raiding team.

Baccay said the raid was based on a tip from a resident who informed the police about the illegal gambling in their barangay. Police said they recovered three live and one dead fighting cocks and P2,380 bet money from the players.

The government is currently investigating the kidnapping of 31 cockfight enthusiasts in Manila and Laguna.