IATF extends ban on cockfighting

CEBU, Philippines —  Cockfighting enthusiasts will have to be contented with e-cockfighting for now after the Inter-Agency for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases decided to continue disallowing actual cockfighting even in areas under the less restrictive modified general community quarantine.

IATF allowed in October of last year the resumption of cockpit operations or cockfighting in MGCQ areas albeit on a limited capacity but was suspended last month due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country.

The suspension was supposed to end last Sunday, but the IATF during its April 3 meeting decided to continue the ban on cockfighting except for online or e-sabong.

“Cockfighting and operation of cockpits, except for the sole purpose of conducting e-sabong licensed and regulated by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR),” the revised omnibus guidelines reads.

Earlier, the Cebu City Gamefowl Commission along with the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) passed a resolution expressing support for the resumption of cockpit operations in the city.

Although Mayor Edgardo Labella said he has yet to study the pros and cons of allowing its operations in the city.

Aside from cockfighting, entertainment venues such as karaoke bars, bars, clubs, concert halls, and theaters are also not allowed to resume operations.

Fairs/Peryas, kid amusement industries such as playgrounds, playroom and kiddie rides are also not permitted yet.

“The foregoing is likewise without prejudice to the authority of DTI to issue a negative list of industries which shall remain prohibited even in areas under MGCQ,” the IATF added in its revised guidelines. — FPL (FREEMAN)