Philippines: three presidential candidates against e-sabong

Three candidates who are running for president at the upcoming Philippines elections have expressed their opposition to legalising online cockfighting operations.

The Philippines.- Five presidential candidates who participated in an election forum on Friday were divided over The Philippines’ legalisation of online cockfighting. Vice president Leni Robredo, senator Panfilo Lacson and Labour leader Leody de Guzman stated that they were not in favour.

Lacson said lawmakers should scrutinise applications for e-sabong franchises. He also said that while granting a franchise could be a possible source of funding for the government, the social problems it could cause are not worth it.

Robredo said she was against activities that could lead to addiction, adding that it could degrade the values ​​of children and adults. Acknowledging that the franchise is in the hands of lawmakers, Robredo urged lawmakers to consult with operators and affected communities before making a decision.

On the other hand, Manila mayor Isko Moreno and senator Manny Pacquiao supported the cockfighting industry, as long as there is government regulation. Moreno said e-sabong will continue to thrive even without legalisation.

Pacquiao also said that cockfighting is so rooted in the Filipino culture that it should be regulated by the government to ensure that minors cannot enter. Last year, PAGCOR announced the first licensed e-sabong operators had started to operate.

The Philippines’ cockfighting industry is believed to be worth just over US$1bn per year. PAGCOR has collected PHP1bn (US$19.9m) in fees since licenced e-sabong (online cockfighting) operators started to operate in the Philippines.

The 2022 Philippine presidential elections are scheduled to be held on May 9.