DILG-Iloilo drive vs illegal cockfight derbies

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The Department of  Interior and Local Government  Iloilo warned barangay officials from engaging themselves into traditional cockfighting derbies, locally known as “bulang,” especially during barrio fiestas.

DILG-Iloilo director Teodora Sumagaysay said her office is now investigating several reports from remote villages in the province on these illegal cockfights, which is not being tolerated for being a violation of the law.

Under Presidential Decree 449, or the Cockfighting Law of 1974, a cockfight derby that is held outside an authorized cockpit arena is illegal and any responsible person is liable for a criminal offense, Sumagaysay said.

Sumagaysay said cockfighting shall be allowed only in licensed cockpits during Sundays and legal holidays and during local fiestas, for not more than three days.

The director added that barangay officials involved in these derbies face criminal and administrative charges. “Aside from imprisonment, liable public official may be suspended or remove from the service.” (FREEMAN)