Authorities arrested 30 individuals and rescued a minor during a raid on an alleged illegal online cockfighting operation in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed on Friday.
A joint operation led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), in coordination with regional police units, was carried out at a private property in Barangay Concepcion following intelligence reports on the suspected activity.
Police said the site was being used as a hub for illegal online sabong operations allegedly run by an organized group. Two individuals were also rescued during the operation, while a minor found on-site has been placed under proper protective care.
Recovered from the scene were livestreaming equipment, communication devices, and various paraphernalia used in cockfighting activities.
Authorities said charges for violation of Presidential Decree 1602 in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act (Republic Act 10175) will be filed through inquest proceedings against those arrested. Separate complaints for alleged trafficking in persons are also being prepared against several identified individuals, including a dismissed police officer and others believed to have facilitated the operation.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said the successful operation underscores the police force’s continuing campaign against illegal gambling activities.
“Hindi natin hinahayaan na magpatuloy ang ganitong mga gawain. Every operation we conduct ensures that the law is enforced and accountability follows,” Nartatez said.
He added that the PNP will sustain efforts to dismantle illegal networks and prevent their re-emergence.
“Ang mensahe natin ay malinaw—walang puwang ang ilegal na operasyon. We will persist until these activities are dismantled and those responsible are brought to justice,” he said.
Authorities said follow-up operations are ongoing to identify other individuals possibly linked to the group as part of the continuing campaign against illegal gambling networks.
The operation is part of the PNP’s broader focus on intensified law enforcement under the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., aimed at cracking down on illegal activities while ensuring due process.