Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday signaled a broader offensive against illegal online cockfighting, warning that more "e-sabong" hubs will be dismantled after a major raid in Tondo, Manila. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that the crackdown is part of a sustained nationwide campaign against organized illegal gambling.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez emphasized that the PNP is intensifying intelligence-driven operations nationwide, with the aim to completely dismantle these illegal gambling hubs. He disclosed that the PNP is conducting nationwide intelligence mapping to locate networks operating in coliseums or online.

This development follows a recent raid by authorities on a 24-hour e-sabong operation in Tondo on Tuesday night, which led to the arrest of over 170 individuals. The raid underscores the PNP's commitment to enforcing the directives set by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who issued Executive Order No. 9 in December 2022, directing the continued suspension of e-sabong operations nationwide.

Nartatez also highlighted additional concerns associated with e-sabong hubs, pointing out issues such as unregulated crowds and tax evasion. "It creates an environment where lawlessness thrives, affecting even those who are not playing," he said, stressing the broader societal impacts of these illegal operations.