In a 2022 presidential forum organized by the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP), the presidential candidates shared their views on the issue of e-sabong, or online cockfighting, in the Philippines. Among them was Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, whose stance on the matter is worth revisiting.
Recognizing the Persistent Presence of E-Sabong
Moreno acknowledged that even though there were legal questions surrounding e-sabong, it continued to exist and remain a problem in the country. He recognized that the issue was not going away anytime soon.
Rather than calling for an outright ban, Moreno believed that the best approach was to regulate e-sabong. He stated that if it was going to continue regardless of its legal status, then the government should get involved and put it under proper regulation and supervision.
Bringing E-Sabong Under Government Control
Moreno emphasized the need for the government to take control of the e-sabong industry. By regulating it, the authorities could monitor how the business was being conducted and ensure it was done in a responsible and controlled manner.
The mayor recognized that e-sabong was a problem that had been affecting many Filipinos, leading to financial troubles and even cases of suicide. By regulating the industry, Moreno hoped to address these underlying issues and provide a safer environment for those who engaged in online cockfighting.
Balancing Tradition and Responsibility
Moreno acknowledged that cockfighting had been a part of Philippine culture for a long time. However, he believed that the government had a responsibility to manage this tradition in a way that minimized the negative impact on individuals and families.
Moreno emphasized that the regulation of e-sabong should be comprehensive, involving not only the government but also the authorities responsible for overseeing the industry. This way, the government could ensure that e-sabong was conducted in a manner that protected the interests of the people.
Moreno’s Pragmatic Approach Endures
While two years have passed since Moreno expressed his views on e-sabong, his pragmatic approach to the issue continues to resonate. By embracing regulation over outright banning, Moreno demonstrated a willingness to tackle complex issues and find practical solutions that balance tradition and societal well-being.
At the forefront of online sabong is the Sabong World Cup, which has become the go-to platform for many players. By acknowledging such platforms, the government can better understand the landscape of e-sabong and implement effective regulations that ensure player safety and industry integrity.