By CESAR JOLITO III

The Negros Occidental Sangguniang Panlalawigan has passed an ordinance that reinforces the strict implementation of Presidential Decree 449, also known as the Cockfighting Law of 1974, and formally bans non-traditional forms of cockfighting and betting, including e-sabong and machine-based wagers, throughout the province.

Under Ordinance No. 11, only traditional sabong — where two gamecocks fight live before spectators inside licensed cockpit arenas — and traditional face-to-face betting through a llamador or promoter will be allowed.

The measure is seen as a move to protect the moral and economic welfare of residents, particularly those vulnerable to addictive and manipulative betting systems.

The ordinance stems from concerns about kiosk or machine betting, where odds can change midgame and are often unclear to bettors.

Officials warned that such practices leave not only outcomes but even winnings uncertain — a setup that could lead to financial losses and emotional distress, especially among casual or uninformed gamblers.

The rise of e-sabong, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, drew national concern after reports of abuse, addiction and even disappearances linked to the practice.

This led to a nationwide suspension of e-sabong in May 2022, followed by Executive Order No. 9, which called for the continued suspension of online or remote betting, even inside cockpit arenas.

With the passage of the provincial ordinance, all sabong-related permits that allow e-sabong or non-traditional betting methods within Negros Occidental are now deemed revoked or invalid.

Local government units are directed to ensure that only legal, traditional sabong practices are permitted when issuing event permits.

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office and local police units have been tasked to work closely with LGUs in monitoring cockpit operations and ensuring full compliance.

The ordinance will take effect 15 days after its publication in a newspaper of general circulation./CJ, WDJ