The Rise and Fall of E-Sabong: A Timeline
E-sabong, or online cockfighting, was once a billion-peso industry in the Philippines. It allowed Filipinos to bet on live derbies streamed from cockpits across the country, 24/7. The game exploded in popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic when land-based cockpits were closed. Operators like Lucky 8 Star Quest, Belvedere Vista, and Visayas Cockers Club ran multiple channels on Facebook and YouTube, drawing millions of viewers and bettors.
At its peak in 2021, e-sabong was generating over ₱6 billion in monthly bets, according to government estimates. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) regulated the activity, and the government collected billions in taxes. But the industry's dark side soon surfaced: reports of kidnappings, disappearances, and even murders linked to unpaid debts and addiction. The most high-profile case was the disappearance of 34 sabungeros (cockfighting enthusiasts) in 2021 and 2022, which sparked public outrage.
In May 2022, then-President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the suspension of e-sabong operations, citing the need to address the social ills it caused. PAGCOR followed suit, and the industry went dark. The ban remains in effect as of 2026, but recent developments suggest a possible revival.
Current Status in 2026: Is E-Sabong Legal Again?
As of October 2026, e-sabong is still illegal in the Philippines. The 2022 ban has not been lifted, and PAGCOR has not issued any new licenses for online cockfighting. However, there have been persistent rumors and lobbying efforts to bring it back. In early 2026, several lawmakers filed bills seeking to regulate and tax e-sabong, arguing that it could generate much-needed revenue for the government. The proposals include strict safeguards, such as age verification, betting limits, and mandatory anti-money laundering measures.
PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco has stated that the agency is open to studying the potential return of e-sabong but only if it can be properly regulated and its social costs mitigated. "We are not closing our doors, but we need to ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated," Tengco said in a recent interview. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has also expressed concerns, noting that illegal e-sabong operations continue underground, often linked to criminal syndicates.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation (PAGCOR) has focused on promoting other forms of online gaming, such as e-casinos and sports betting, which have seen steady growth. For bettors, this means that e-sabong remains off-limits, and any platform offering it is operating illegally.
Why the Ban Persists: Social and Political Factors
The ban on e-sabong is not just about law and order; it's deeply tied to cultural and political sensitivities. Cockfighting is a traditional Filipino pastime, but its online version amplified the risks: easy access, round-the-clock betting, and anonymity. The disappearance of the sabungeros became a national scandal, and many Filipinos associate e-sabong with crime and corruption.
President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., who took office in 2022, has not publicly supported its revival. His administration has prioritized responsible gaming and anti-criminality campaigns. In 2025, the Department of Justice (DOJ) reiterated its opposition to e-sabong, citing ongoing investigations into the disappearances. The Catholic Church in the Philippines also remains a vocal critic, warning against the moral hazards of gambling.
On the other hand, proponents argue that a regulated e-sabong industry could curb illegal operations and provide a safe outlet for enthusiasts. They point to the success of other regulated online games and the potential tax revenues. However, public opinion remains divided, and any move to legalize it would face significant hurdles.
What This Means for Filipino Bettors
For now, Filipino bettors should avoid any e-sabong platforms, as they are illegal and unregulated. Playing on such sites exposes you to risks like non-payment of winnings, identity theft, and even legal consequences. Instead, focus on licensed online casinos and sportsbooks that operate under PAGCOR's strict guidelines. These platforms offer a safer environment with fair games, secure transactions, and responsible gaming tools.
If e-sabong does make a comeback, it will likely be under heavy regulation. Expect requirements like verified accounts, deposit limits, and self-exclusion options. But until that happens, treat e-sabong as a thing of the past. Keep an eye on news from PAGCOR and the Philippine Congress for any updates. As always, gamble responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose.
