
Police Capt. Eric Doronilla, E.B. Magalona police chief, identified the barangay official as former councilor Noli Nene, 46, of Barangay 6, Victorias City.
Doronilla said they received a report about the illegal activity in the area, prompting them to plan and launch an operation.
He said these persons were not authorized to hold a cock derby because mass gathering is still prohibited due to the pandemic.
Police recovered from them two wounded fighting cocks, six live fighting cocks, six dead fighting cocks, gaff or “tari,” two pairs of scissors, paper, and P2,000.
Doronilla said that most of them were bettors from the town and the cities of Silay and Victorias.
He said the arrested individuals were placed at the multi-purpose hall near the police station since their custodial facility could not accommodate them all.
Charges for illegal gambling will be filed against them as well as cases for violating the health protocols.
Doronilla said that 90 percent of them were not wearing face masks during the gathering. He said the minor was released and was turned over to his parents.