Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 29) – All online cockfighting or e-sabong operations will remain suspended across the country, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said in an executive order (EO) made public on Thursday.
The Office of the Press Secretary (OPS) said the president issued Executive Order No. 9 on Dec. 28, reiterating that the online betting game remains prohibited and directing relevant agencies to pursue an aggressive crackdown against the illegal operations.
“The State has the paramount obligation to protect public health and morals and promote public safety and general welfare,” Marcos said in his directive.
In May, former President Rodrigo Duterte first ordered the end of online cockfighting operations in the country, saying the hundreds of millions of pesos worth of monthly revenue that the industry generates are not worth the social damage it causes.
Duterte made the decision following the disappearance of dozens of cockfight enthusiasts believed to have been abducted. He also took note of reports of addiction problems among several Filipinos, some of whom have been mired in huge debt.
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Based on Marcos’ newly signed order, the broadcasting of live cockfights outside arenas or premises where the games are being held is still banned.
Also suspended are online, remote, or off-cockpit wagering/betting on live cockfighting matches, regardless of the location of the betting platform.
Meanwhile, traditional cockfight operations which are authorized under existing laws are not covered by the suspension.
Marcos also ordered the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to coordinate with local government units and other concerned agencies and private entities to ensure the directive is implemented.
Under the EO, the PAGCOR is required to submit regular reports to the President regarding the matter.
