Five arrested over illegal cockfighting in Panay

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Five people were arrested after they were allegedly caught participating in an illegal cockfight in Barangay Pawa, Panay, Capiz, on Sunday afternoon, Aug. 2.

Police Capt. Eric Deocampo, Panay police chief, identified the suspects only as aliases Jose, 44; Vins, 39; Jerald, 40; Fil, 70; and Ernie, 46.

All five suspects are residents of the barangay.

Police said the suspects were informed of their constitutional rights following their arrest.

Officers seized six gamefowl, cockfighting paraphernalia and PHP 2,030 in alleged bets.

The suspects and seized items were taken to the Panay Municipal Police Station.

Police were preparing complaints for alleged violations of Presidential Decree No. 1602, which penalizes participation in illegal or unauthorized gambling activities, including cockfighting.

Cockfighting is regulated under Presidential Decree No. 449 and may be conducted only in licensed cockpits and under authorized circumstances. Lawphil: Presidential Decree No. 1602, Lawphil: Presidential Decree No. 449