Bacolod City Council Upholds Traditional Betting Methods in Cockfighting

The Bacolod City Council has passed a resolution requiring all cockpit operators and promoters in the city to provide bettors with the choice of placing wagers either through electronic machines or the traditional hand signal or "kumarera system." The resolution, authored by Councilor Dindo Ramos, emphasizes that patrons must not be forced to use machine-based betting exclusively.

Councilor Ramos, chair of the City Council committee on transportation and traffic, underscored that operators should avoid any form of discrimination by ensuring equal treatment regardless of the betting method chosen. This includes parity in location access, gate fees, and other related conditions in line with applicable laws, local ordinances, and Filipino customs.

"Certain cockpit operators have begun compelling bettors to place wagers only via machines, effectively removing their free choice and potentially discriminating against those who prefer the traditional method," Ramos explained. "We must safeguard the rights of patrons and uphold fairness in all aspects of cockfighting operations."

He further elaborated on the cultural significance of sabong, highlighting that cockfighting is a deeply entrenched Filipino tradition intertwined with the social fabric of many communities, including Bacolod City. The preservation of customary practices such as the use of hand signal betting is vital to maintaining this heritage.

Ramos cited Presidential Decree 449, known as The Cockfighting Law of 1974, along with local ordinances, which mandate that cockfighting activities adhere to traditional customs, public morality, and community values.

"The City Council has a responsibility to protect local customs and ensure that all cockfighting events are conducted fairly and in compliance with national and local laws," Ramos added.