By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod has called for a stronger crackdown on illegal cockfighting activities, urging authorities to step up enforcement amid reports of continued unauthorized operations across the city.

In a recently approved resolution, the city council directed the Bacolod City Police Office and the Games and Amusements Board to intensify monitoring, regulation and apprehension efforts against violators.

The move comes following persistent reports of illegal cockfighting events being held without permits from the city government.

These include activities conducted outside licensed cockpits, events scheduled on non-authorized days, and operations lacking proper documentation.

Under existing local ordinances and national laws, cockfighting remains a regulated activity in Bacolod.

Only events sanctioned by the city council — such as those held during barangay fiestas or charter celebrations — are considered legal, provided they comply with established guidelines.

City officials said the proliferation of illegal cockfighting not only disrupts public order but also creates unfair competition for legitimate cockpit operators, who have raised concerns over revenue losses and weak enforcement.

Councilor Caesar Distrito emphasized that the city government has clear authority under the Local Government Code of 1991 to regulate such activities, stressing the need to uphold these powers to protect lawful businesses and ensure compliance.

The resolution underscores the role of the police in maintaining peace and order, alongside the mandate of the Games and Amusements Board to oversee gaming-related activities.

With stronger coordination among enforcement agencies and local authorities, the city council aims to curb illegal cockfighting and ensure that all related activities operate strictly within the bounds of the law./CJ, WDJ