Manila: Police discovered an alleged online cockfighting (e-sabong) den in Tondo, Manila and arrested 172 individuals engaged in the illegal activity.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a press briefing at Camp Crame, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group - National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) chief Col. John Guiagui stated that bettors, management personnel, gaffers, and bet takers were apprehended during Tuesday night's operation at the Vitas Coliseum. The operation also resulted in the seizure of 45 sets of computers, three tripod cameras, and fighting cocks. Guiagui explained that 132 of those arrested were bettors who were released to their families and the local barangay, while the management and operational staff were detained.
The suspects are set to face charges for violation of Presidential Decree 1602 in relation to Republic Act 10175. Guiagui detailed that the e-sabong den operated non-stop, with each fight lasting two to three minutes, accumulating over 500 fights daily. Bettors placed their wagers on a link called 'Sabong VIP,' with bets ranging from PHP100 to PHP1,000.
Despite overwhelming evidence, the management staff denied any operations until shown video proof by CIDG operatives. Guiagui also mentioned the potential involvement of an influential person behind the operations and intends to involve the Anti-Money Laundering Council to investigate possible sequestering of properties.
Guiagui further noted that the CIDG is looking into the local barangay's failure to detect the illegal activity and is coordinating with the Games and Amusement Board to assess necessary disciplinary actions.
Executive Order 9, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in December 2022, mandates the suspension of e-sabong operations nationwide.
Meanwhile, Guiagui reported the arrest of two suspects involved in the sale of stolen racing pigeons worth PHP2.1 million in Batangas. The operation was initiated after a complainant reported the disappearance of his racing pigeons during a competition. The pigeons were offered for sale on Facebook, leading to their recovery and the arrest of the suspects in Taal, Batangas. The suspects face charges for violation of the Anti-Fencing Law in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
