NBI Raids Illegal Cockfighting Event in Carcar, Nets 15 Arrests
In a scene reminiscent of a chaotic fun run, more than a hundred individuals scrambled to escape as agents from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Region 7 stormed an illegal cockfighting operation in Sityo Bonbon, Barangay Ocaña, Carcar City on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The swift anti-illegal gambling raid resulted in the apprehension of approximately 15 people, including bettors, handlers, and game operators, highlighting a coordinated crackdown on illicit activities in the area.
Tip-Off Leads to Major Bust
According to Executive Officer for Administration and Supervising Agent Gregorio Algoso, the operation was launched following a thorough investigation prompted by a letter received on March 10 from a concerned citizen. This tip detailed the illegal gambling activities occurring in the locality, prompting authorities to verify and act on the information. "We already noticed several tigbakay in different barangays; it seems that it is fairly coordinated scheduling of tigbakay in different barangays within the City of Carcar," Algoso stated on March 27, 2026. "There's a time also that in one day there were two barangays simultaneously holding tigbakays."
Further investigation revealed that these cockfighting events were unauthorized, as confirmed by the Philippine Games and Amusement Board. During the raid, authorities seized gamecocks and gambling stakes, while also scrutinizing individuals suspected of supporting the illegal operations. Additionally, the area's hantak (a local term for gambling dens) was examined as part of the broader probe.
Defiant Arrestee and Calls for Release
Among those detained was a 61-year-old participant who expressed a nonchalant attitude toward his arrest. "I've been caught many times before, but they always release me. This is the first time I've been imprisoned, but I don't regret it. The conditions here are fine, and the food is good," he remarked. "I have many gamecocks at home, and we even have derbies. I'll stick to legal cockfighting arenas where there are prizes." However, other arrestees appealed for assistance in securing their release, especially with the approaching Semana Santa (Holy Week), emphasizing the personal and familial strains of incarceration.
Authorities Urge Financial Prudence Amid Crisis
In light of the operation, NBI 7 Information Officer Agent III Maria Contessa Lastimoso issued a stern reminder to the public. With the ongoing economic crisis and rising prices of goods, it is crucial to allocate money toward essential family needs rather than squandering it on gambling. This warning underscores the broader societal impact of illegal gambling, particularly during times of financial hardship, and reinforces the agency's commitment to curbing such activities through vigilant enforcement and community cooperation.
