CRACKDOWN VS. 'TUPADA'. Authorities arrest 20 persons involved in illegal cockfighting in Northern Samar town on August 9, 2020. The local government of San Roque on Friday (Sept. 18, 2020) approved an ordinance regulating the transport of gamefowl or fighting cocks to eliminate illegal cockfighting or "tupada", especially in remote villages. (Photo courtesy of Northern Samar police)
TACLOBAN CITY – The local government of San Roque in Northern Samar has set guidelines for the transport of gamefowl to eliminate 'tupada' (illegal cockfighting) especially in remote villages.
Through Ordinance No. 89 approved on Friday, the transport or movement of gamefowl or fighting cocks by any person from its breeding or training place, to any location within the town's jurisdiction, is prohibited unless permitted by authorities.
Owners are directed to secure a transport permit from the village chief of the place of origin, of which a copy would be submitted to the local police.
On the other hand, transport of fighting cocks from other towns or cities and vice versa must be permitted by the mayor of the place of origin.
"This regulation can minimize, if not eradicate the ‘tupada’ as a form of illegal gambling that has become more frequent in places far from the reach of law enforcement authorities," Mayor Don Abalon said in a statement.
Possession and transport of gaff, metal spur, or similar devices used in cockfighting within the town's jurisdiction and to other towns or cities and vice versa, are also prohibited, unless permitted by the village or local chief of the place of origin, respectively.
Violators of the ordinance may face up to three months imprisonment and fines of PHP1,000, PHP2,000, and PHP3,000, for the first, second, and third offense, respectively.
To avoid prosecution and imprisonment, the offender can pay an administrative fine of PHP2,500 for each offense.
Earlier, Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan has issued a stern warning against illegal cockfighting after four enthusiasts in Bobon town have tested positive for coronavirus disease.
They were exposed to a confirmed patient when they participated in the illegal activity from August 23 to 25.
"Cockfighting is prohibited whatever your purpose while we are still under community quarantine, whether it's for gambling or entertainment," Ongchuan said.
He added that "tupada" does not only violate existing laws but also the mass gathering and physical distancing guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.
Under the Cockfighting Law of the Philippines, only one cockpit must be established in a city or town, except those with a population of more than 100,000 where two may be established, allowing cockfights only on prescribed days. (PNA)
