Sabungeros fear Revised Animal Welfare Act may ban cockfighting

Sabungeros, or cockfighting enthusiasts, are concerned that Senate Bill No. 2975, the Revised Animal Welfare Act, could ban their tradition.

They argue that a ban would eradicate a tradition dating back to pre-colonial times and impact the livelihoods of thousands of Filipinos.

The bill, sponsored by Senator Grace Poe, passed its third reading in the Senate on June 2.

Sabungeros suggest that the bill should specifically prohibit dog, horse, and carabao fighting, rather than generalizing 'animal fights' which could inadvertently include cockfighting.

Joey Sy, a gamefowl breeder for over 30 years, warned about the danger of generalizing animal fights and called for lawmakers' attention to the issue.