Cockfighting now allowed in MGCQ areas -IATF

The government’s COVID-19 task force has lifted the ban on cockfighting activities but this will only apply to areas under modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) or lower classification.

In a resolution approved on Thursday, the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) said licensed cockpits and the conduct of cockfighting activities must follow health and safety protocols to prevent the spread of the virus.

In-person audience, online or remote betting, and the live broadcast of cockfights are prohibited. The IATF did not provide details on how the public could watch the cockfighting activities.

“[T]he local government units shall have the final decision on whether the operation of licensed cockpits and conduct of cockfighting activities can proceed in their respective localities,” the IATF said.

The IATF has also allowed off-track horse race betting stations to operate in areas under general community quarantine or lower, subject to health and safety protocols.

MGCQ is the least restrictive in the government’s four-tier quarantine classification system, meaning more businesses will be allowed to operate but public health measures such as wearing of masks and social distancing will remain in effect.

Most areas in the country are under MGCQ. Metro Manila, Batangas and the cities of Tacloban, Bacolod, Iloilo and Iligan will remain under GCQ until October 31 while Lanao del Sur is under modified enhanced community quarantine.—AOL, GMA News