A cockpit lessor has escalated a formal grievance to the Office of the Ombudsman, targeting local authorities and police in Bantayan, Cebu, for their alleged failure to curb illegal cockfighting activities. The complaint highlights serious concerns over regulatory breaches and potential corruption in the region.
Details of the Complaint
In a complaint-affidavit dated March 26, 2026, Sando Destura, the lessor of Rueda de Bantayan, accused officials of tolerating cockfights held every Sunday from February to March 2026 at St. Peter Coliseum in Barangay Combado, Ticad. These events reportedly ran from 1 p.m. until midnight, operating without a mayor's business permit or a franchise from the Municipal Council, as mandated by Presidential Decree 449 and the Local Government Code.
Respondents Named
The complaint names several key figures, including Bantayan Mayor Orlando Layese, former police chief Lt. Col. Julius Garcia, current police chief Lt. Col. Aldrin Villacampa, and other officers from the Bantayan Police Station. Private individuals and Sidlak sa Bantayan Holdings Inc., represented by Francisco Escario, are also implicated as operators of the venue.
Series of Letters and Alleged Inaction
According to the affidavit, Bantayan Vice Mayor Arthur Despi initiated a series of letters starting February 13, urging action against the illegal cockfighting. Despite follow-ups and a police verification on February 15, Destura claims the operations persisted weekly through March. A certification from the Business Permits and Licensing Office on March 12 confirmed that St. Peter Coliseum lacked a business permit for 2026, and no franchise was granted by the Municipal Council.
Seeking Legal Action
Destura is pushing for criminal and administrative charges under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and other laws, citing strong evidence and risks of witness tampering. He has requested preventive suspension for the involved public officials, alleging that the cockfights generated over P100,000 in income and involved minors in other barangays. Video footage and affidavits support his claims, though he expresses fears for his safety and that of his witnesses due to the respondents' influence.
As of the latest update, SunStar Cebu attempted to contact Mayor Layese for comment, but no response had been received at press time. This case underscores ongoing challenges in enforcing local regulations and combating illicit activities in Cebu.
