NTC: Livestreaming, broadcasting of cockfights still suspended

E-sabong, or online betting on live cockfighting matches, remains suspended, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) reminded telecommunications firms and broadcast companies.

In a memorandum dated January 4, 2023, the NTC directed telcos, internet service providers, value-added service providers, satellite service providers, and television and radio broadcast stations to strictly comply with Executive Order No. 9, issued by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on December 28, 2022.

The order states there is “an urgent need to reiterate the continued suspension of all e-sabong operations nationwide, clarify the scope of existing regulations and direct relevant agencies to pursue aggressive crackdown against illegal e-sabong operations, in accordance with law.” 

“The State has the paramount obligation to protect public health and morals, and to promote public safety and the general welfare," it added.

Section 1 of the EO No. 9 mandates the suspension of:

• livestreaming or broadcasting of live cockfights outside cockpits or cockfighting arenas, or premises where cockfights are being held; and
• online/remote or off-cockpit wagering/betting on live cockfighting matches, events, and/or activities streamed or broadcasted lives, regardless of the location of the betting platform, including but not limited to betting platforms that may be situation inside the cockpit or cockfighting arenas, or premises where cockfights are being held.

“In the interest of public health and morals, and to promote public safety and the general welfare of the Filipino, you are directed to comply with the above Presidential directive and future issuances by the Commission related to the above matter,” the NTC said.

In his directive, Marcos tasked Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) to coordinate with local government units (LGUs), other concerned government agencies and private entities on the implementation of EO No. 9.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have also been directed to render necessary assistance to PAGCOR in the implementation of the order and shall take appropriate action against violators, in accordance with law.

The agencies must also make regular reports to the President regarding the enforcement of the EO.

In May 2022, then-President Rodrigo Duterte approved the DILG's recommendation halt e-sabong operations after the government conducted a survey on the practice and amid the disappearance of several individuals involved in the practice, who remain missing. — Ted Cordero/BM, GMA Integrated News