Mambaling brgy official washes hands off cockfights

CEBU, Philippines - After a compound was raided by the police last week in Barangay Mambaling for illegal cockfighting, barangay officials have washed their hands off the illegal activity.

Willie Go, Barangay Mambaling councilman, told The FREEMAN that the barangay was clueless about the “benefit” cockfight which happened a few meters from the San Nicolas Parish.

Go faced members of the media after Barangay Captain Rodolfo Estella was reportedly out on official business, contrary to reports that he was inside the barangay hall when reporters arrived.  

When the police swooped into a compound owned by Reynaldo Castillo where a cockpit was constructed, Castillo alleged that they asked permission from the barangay.

Three barangay-owned tents were also put-up within the compound for the cockfighting spectators.

But when asked again if he new about the illegal cockfighting, Go replied that he did and explained that the activity was for their Sinulog costumes which they celebrated last Sunday.

“Sa akong na bati-an, para to sa ilang costume,” he said. (I heard it was for their costumes.)

When asked regarding his stand on cockfighting in the barangay, he replied “illegal na ang ilang kalihukan.” (Their activity is illegal.)

Go said that as chairman of their Sinulog Celebrations, he would not allow cockfighting as a fundraiser for their fiesta.

Their local parish priest strongly discouraged cockfighting and benefit dances during the annual celebration of their fiesta, he said.

He, however, refused to comment if Estella did issue a permit to Castillo for the cockfighting.

Last week, the police raided Castillo’s compound but no one was apprehended.

They were only able to confiscate some fighting cocks.

Similar raids were also done over the weekend in Barangays Pahina Central and Lahug over complaints from locals.

All of the cockpits from the three barangays were reportedly dismantled.

The police are asking for the public’s help in identifying areas where illegal cockpits are put-up throughout the city. (FREEMAN)