The Cebu City Council denied a request from a cockfighting gaming organization to hold a three-day cockfighting event at a hotel and convention center along South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City, Philippines.
OX KBDF Gaming sought approval from the council to conduct the event, however, some members of the council pointed out that the event was against the law. A resolution filed by Councilor Pastor “Jun” Alcover stipulated that the event is in line with Section 3 of City Ordinance No. 1447 also known as “An Ordinance Regulating the Operation of Cockpits in the City of Cebu,” backing the supposed go signal to hold the three-day event.
However, the resolution also mandates that it will be approved subject to the rules and regulations prescribed by the Ordinance and the Cebu City Gamefowl Commission.
During the discussion, some members of the legislation showed their intent to abstain from voting. Councilor Philip Zafra substantiated his decision to abstain as per existing laws and ordinances stating that cockfighting can only be done in a duly-accredited cockpit arena.
Councilor Joy Augustus Young also signified his intent to abstain, explaining that if it was against the law, the council should be objecting to the resolution.
On the other hand, Councilor Noel Wenceslao, Chairman of the Committee on Budget and Finance of the city council, said that he supports the resolution since the city is in “dire need” for revenue. Alcover disclosed that a PHP 500,000 amusement tax has been paid for the last two derbies held in the hotel along SRP.
Councilor Mary Ann de Los Santos raised the motion to divide the house where the majority voted to object Alcover’s motion. Afterwards, Zafra proposed a corollary motion mandating the secretariat of the Game Fowl Commission to submit the minutes of the meeting about the resolution.
Councilor Rey Gealon also raised a corollary motion urging the Game Fowl Commission to submit a resolution that allows the said event. “Considering that these activities pursuant to our ordinance require the approval of the Sangguniang Panlungsod,” said Gealon.
On the other hand, Cuenco raised a corollary motion to furnish a copy of the ordinance relative to the guidelines of cockfighting to the operators and management. Gealon also raised another corollary motion, urging the venue to submit a verified statement indicating the location of where the cockfighting events have taken place. All corollary motions were approved by the council.
In Alcover’s resolution, it was indicated that OX KBDF Gaming has filed before the Office of the Mayor its request for a special permit to hold an 8-day cock derby event. The said request was referred to the Game Fowl Commission for its opinion or appropriate recommendation where the has approved to recommend for approval before the city council.
