The PNP Regional Special Operations Group was hunting the most wanted person in Negros Island Region (NIR) who was reportedly hiding at a property in the town of Enrique B. Magalona in Negros Occidental. 

But instead of their target, what greeted them at Hacienda Pilar in Barangay Alicante was the set of an alleged online cockfight, known commonly as e-sabong.

Authorities found a computer at the set, as well as 100 dead fighting cocks.

“Ibig sabihin, ongoing ‘yung kanilang sabong na ginagawa diyan. Nakita namin sa studio na ginagawa nila. Well-organized,” said BGen. Romano Cardiño, Director of the Police Regional Office NIR.

Their target reportedly escaped but the team arrested four people who allegedly failed to present proof that the e-sabong had permit to operate.

The four are facing charges for violation of the Illegal Gambling Act and Anti-Cybercrime Prevention Act.

“Nag-scamper ng ang mga tao sa loob. Hindi na nahuli ang subject,” said Lt. Col. Joem Malong, spokesperson of PRO-NIR.

PRO-NIR disclosed that the property is owned by Board Member Andrew Montelibano of the Third District of Negros Occidental.

“Nung mag-assault ‘yung ating team dun, nakita daw siya sa area. During the actual operations, parang nagpakilala na siya (na) si Board Member Montelibano,” Cardiño said.

Montelibano denied knowledge of the e-sabong. He said his property was being rented out.

“Wala ko nag-expect nga may illegal because ang area is too small for it. Kagamay kaayo sang area,” the Board Member said.

Investigation into the illegal operation continues, as of this writing.