Online sabomg is a form of cockfight betting where bettors place their bets online using a smartphone or PC. It has gained popularity in the Philippines. In this form of gambling, bettors place their bets by choosing an underdog and letting two cocks fight. The payout depends on the amount wagered and the current odds. Several operators have applied for licenses to legally operate sabomg online.
While the sabong industry is growing, it has been criticized for its social impacts. For instance, the revenue generated by e-sabong does not necessarily cover the social ills associated with it.
As a result of this, the Philippine government has been ordered to conduct a multi-agency investigation of e-sabong. This is due to the fact that several e-sabong websites have been illegally operating. According to PNP's Anti-Cybercrime Group head Brigadier General Robert Rodriguez, several e-sabong websites have already been verified as illegal.
Meanwhile, the Department of Interior and Local Government under Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya issued a notice to Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to start monitoring the activities of e-sabong operators. PAGCOR has also been asked to investigate the agreements of e-sabong operators.
The Philippine Senate has also called for the suspension of e-sabong during the investigation. Twenty-three senators signed a resolution in support of the suspension of the e-sabong licensing program. However, the PNP Chief Chief Superintendent Ronald Dela Rosa said that it is not likely that he will suspend the e-sabong licenses. He added that the PNP will not hesitate to arrest those involved in the illicit activity.
However, online sabong has already become a source of employment for hundreds of thousands of Filipinos. Even 10-year-old kids have been affected by e-sabong. These youngsters are attracted by the convenience and affordability of e-sabong. They are able to bet on cockfights while in their school or home without the inconvenience of traveling.
The Special Investigation Task Group has been investigating incidents where BoC personnel have been targeted by grenade attacks. In the past, the group has also been examining the fates of cockfight enthusiasts who have gone missing. In addition to this, it is now hoping to receive rewards for its efforts in solving unsolved cases.
There are also reports that police officers have been involved in robbery attempts. One of the cases is a robbery attempt by a police corporal who has already been charged for a robbery attempt. Another police officer has been caught trying to rob a hardware store.
During the course of their investigations, the Special Investigation Task Group found out that several cockfighters have gone missing. Among these were the nephews of former Candaba Mayor Jerry Pelayo. Additionally, a policeman tried to rob a gasoline station. Other Customs officers were also targeted by grenade attacks.
The number of sabong enthusiasts who have been forced to stop sabong due to the pandemic is also rising. With this, the government needs to secure funds in order to combat the dreaded COVID-19 pandemic.
