Despite a nationwide prohibition, the Philippines continues to grapple with the enduring popularity of online cockfighting, known locally as e-sabong.
The country-wide ban, declared initially by former President Rodrigo Duterte in response to a series of disappearances and alleged murders tied to match-fixing, has failed to extinguish the digital gambling phenomenon.
Enforcement Challenges and Legislative Pushback
Since the ban went into effect, the National Telecommunications Commission has blocked over 6,800 e-sabong websites. However, VPNs and offshore hosting make enforcement difficult.
Penalties remain minimal, with fines as low as 1,000 pesos ($17), prompting lawmakers to call for tougher sanctions. Congressman Rolando Valeriano has introduced a bill to raise fines and jail terms for online cockfighting operators significantly.
Government Response and Industry Resilience
On August 15, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) ordered e-wallet providers to sever links to gambling platforms within 48 hours. The directive followed a Senate hearing where lawmakers criticized the delay in enforcement.
Despite these efforts, the e-sabong industry remains resilient. A viral image recently showed a congressman watching a cockfight on his phone during a vote for House Speaker — a stark reminder of the cultural grip this form of gambling still holds.
History of Cockfighting Runs Deep
Cockfighting, known locally as sabong, has deep historical roots in the Philippines, dating back to pre-colonial times. Early accounts from Spanish explorers in the 16th century noted that native Filipinos were already engaging in cockfighting as a popular pastime, often tied to social gatherings and community rituals.
Over centuries, sabong evolved from a traditional sport into a regulated industry, with arenas called cockpits established across the country. It became so culturally embedded that even national heroes like José Rizal referenced it in their writings.
Today, despite ethical debates and legal restrictions, especially concerning online and underground matches, cockfighting remains a controversial yet enduring symbol of Filipino heritage and identity.
Betting On Cockfighting Online
Online cockfight betting, or e-sabong, surged in popularity in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic, when traditional cockpits were shuttered and matches moved to livestreamed platforms.
The government has blocked thousands of e-sabong websites, yet enforcement remains challenging. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has acknowledged that banning alone may not solve the problem and is convening a national “conclave” to craft a more comprehensive online gambling policy.