Bacolod City Council Demands Stricter Enforcement Against Illegal Cockfighting
The Bacolod City Council has formally called upon the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) and the Games and Amusements Board (GAB) to ramp up their efforts in monitoring, regulating, and apprehending illegal cockfighting activities across the city. This move comes as part of a broader initiative to curb the proliferation of unauthorized events that operate without the necessary permits from the City Government.
Resolution Authored to Address Unauthorized Events
Councilor Caesar Distrito, who chairs the City Council committee on human resource and development, authored and secured approval for a resolution aimed at tackling the ongoing issue. He emphasized that under existing laws and local ordinances, cockfighting is a strictly regulated activity. Only events that receive proper authorization from the City Council, such as those held during barangay fiestas and charter days, are considered lawful.
Distrito highlighted that reports have surfaced indicating persistent illegal cockfighting in various forms, including:
- Operations conducted outside licensed cockpits
- Events held on days not permitted by regulations
- Activities carried out without any official authorization
Concerns from Legitimate Operators
The resolution was also prompted by concerns raised by legitimate cockpit operators in Bacolod City. These operators have expressed alarm over the unfair competition posed by illegal operators, which not only undermines lawful businesses but also deprives the city of legitimate revenues and weakens regulatory enforcement.
"These unauthorized activities not only undermine lawful businesses but also deprive the city of legitimate revenues and weaken regulatory enforcement," Distrito stated. He further noted that the City Government holds clear authority under the Local Government Code of 1991 to regulate cockfighting within its jurisdiction, stressing that "it is imperative that this authority be upheld to protect legitimate operators and ensure public order."
Enhanced Coordination Among Authorities
The resolution underscores the critical roles of the BCPO in enforcing laws and maintaining peace and order, as well as the GAB's mandate to supervise and regulate gaming and sporting activities related to cockfighting. By strengthening coordination among the BCPO, GAB, and the City Government, the City Council aims to ensure that all cockfighting activities in Bacolod City are conducted strictly in accordance with the law.
Distrito reaffirmed the council's commitment to safeguarding legitimate businesses, preserving public order, and enforcing regulatory measures against illegal gambling-related activities. This proactive stance is expected to bolster efforts to maintain a fair and regulated environment for cockfighting in the city.
