ILOILO CITY—Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. of Iloilo province has ordered mayors and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in 42 towns and the component city of Passi to strictly monitor cockpit derbies.
This was after Defensor issued an executive order following the alleged operation of an online cock derby in Janiuay town.
To recall, the provincial government allowed the resumption of cockfighting in the province, following the national government’s lifting of the ban in areas under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).
But Defensor said the resumption of cockfighting in Iloilo had limitations, including not allowing an audience as a measure against coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The resumption also specifically stated that no online betting will be allowed.
But in the case of Janiuay, a video camera was found inside the cockfight area. This prompted the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-Iloilo province) to issue a show-cause order to Mayor Ben Margarico.
With what happened in Janiuay, Defensor said both local government unit (LGUs) and the PNP must conduct regular inspections, especially before a scheduled cock derby.
Defensor’s executive order also specifically states that a PNP must be at the arena at all times to witness any scheduled fights.
A report must also be submitted to both the provincial government and the regional task force against COVID-19.