The Tradition and History of Sabong in the Philippines

Cockfighting, locally termed sabong, is not just a sport in the Philippines—it’s a cultural institution that has persisted since pre-colonial times. This practice has woven itself into the social and economic fabric of Filipino life, reflecting the complexities of national identity and social classes. Despite its violent and cruel nature, sabong endures as a mainstream event, revered and reviled in equal measure.

Presidential Decree No. 449, or the Cockfighting Law of 1974, changed the landscape of cock fighting in the country. Unfortunately, this didn’t stop illegal ones and other unlicensed venues from hosting fighting cock events. 

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When did cockfighting begin in the Philippines?

Cockfighting has a long history in the Philippines, with roots stretching back to at least the Spanish colonial period, though it is likely to have been practiced even earlier. Historical accounts suggest that when the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, they found that cockfighting was already a well-established tradition among the local population.

The exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, but it is clear that the tradition of sabong, as it is locally known, was well integrated into Filipino culture by the time of Spanish contact. This suggests that the practice may have been present in the pre-colonial Philippines, possibly introduced through early trade and cultural exchange with other Southeast Asian civilizations, where similar forms of cockfighting were also popular.

Over the centuries, cockfighting has been more than just a form of entertainment; it has served as a social and economic activity, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric and traditions of the Filipino people.

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Where did the sabong come from? Where did cockfighting originate?

Sabong likely originated from ancient traditions in Southeast Asia, where similar forms of the sport have existed for thousands of years. The practice of cockfighting is believed to have spread across the region through trade, migration, and cultural exchanges among other countries.

The earliest recorded instance of the term “gamecock,” referring to the use of the bird in sports, games, or entertainment, dates back to 1634. This followed the use of “cock of the game” by George Wilson in the first known book about the sport of cockfighting, titled “The Commendation of Cocks and Cock Fighting,” published in 1607.

Evidence of cockfighting dates back to at least 3,000 years ago in the Indus Valley civilization. From there, it spread to other parts of Asia, including China and the Malay Archipelago, before reaching the Philippines.

The sport was well-established in many parts of Southeast Asia before the arrival of European colonizers. The widespread nature of the practice suggests that it was spread primarily through cultural diffusion among neighboring cultures and islands.

By the time the Spanish colonizers arrived in the 16th century, sabong was already a popular and well-established activity among the native populations of the Philippines. This indicates that the sport had been integrated into local cultures for some time.

In addition to being a form of entertainment, sabong also held—and continues to hold—significant social and ritual importance. It was used for celebrating important occasions, resolving disputes, and interacting with various communities.

During the Spanish colonial period, the popularity of sabong grew even further. The Spanish colonizers, who were familiar with similar practices in Latin America, recognized the social and economic benefits of the sport and regulated it, incorporating it into the colonial social and economic structures.

Thus, sabong in the Philippines is a blend of indigenous tradition and cultural influences that evolved over centuries, becoming deeply rooted in the fabric of Filipino society.

In other countries, though, cock fights are forbidden outright. 

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The Significance of Sabong in the Filipino Culture

To understand sabong is to delve into the heart of Filipino culture. It has been a popular sport among various social classes, celebrated across many cultures in the Philippines. Historically, the earliest known book detailing cockfighting dates back to the times of Ateneo de Manila University, signifying its deep historical roots. The sport has evolved from a rudimentary animal fighting spectacle to a sophisticated event with profound cultural implications, manifesting as both a cherished tradition and a significant gambling activity.

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The Mechanics and Rituals of Cockfighting

Cockfighting in the Philippines, locally known as sabong, is not only a deeply ingrained cultural tradition but also a popular sport that resonates through various facets of Philippine society. This tradition has endured despite its cruel nature, with arenas known as cockpit arenas serving as the main venues for these events. Cockfighting is legally regulated, with licensed cockpits hosting events on designated days and the existence of illegal venues, called tupada or illegal tupada, which operate without licenses. Often, these unlicensed venues are secluded cockpits. 

The practice involves two roosters, often referred to with the traditional word gamecock, fighting in a ring until one emerges as the winning cock, while a referee called sentensyador ensures the rules are followed. 

Significant controversies surround Philippine cockfighting, not least because of its violent aspects, where cocks inflict considerable harm on each other, often enhanced by single-edged blades or spurs attached to their legs. These aspects of the sport have led to its outright ban in many countries. However, in the Philippines, it remains a mainstream event, reflecting aspects of national identity as much as it is a subject of ethical debate. 

The introduction of online cockfighting platforms has modernized the engagement with the sport, broadening its audience and participation beyond physically present spectators, despite ongoing concerns about the promotion of gambling and animal cruelty. This dichotomy represents Philippine culture’s complex relationship between traditional practices and modern values.

The Cockpit Arena

Central to the tradition of sabong is the ring called, cockpit arena, a dedicated space where the fights take place. These arenas are not just physical venues but cultural epicenters where communities gather. The design of these arenas ensures that spectators have a clear view of the action, reinforcing the communal aspect of the event. The atmosphere in a cockpit arena is charged, filled with the shouts and cheers of spectators, making it a potent mixture of sport and spectacle. 

With their outstretched hands, it’s common to see a kristo signaling bets. In betting, Meron refers to the “favored” bird, which often the game is their first fight. 

Preparation of the Gamecocks

Before a fight, the gamecocks, also known as fighting cocks or simply cocks, undergo extensive preparation. Two owners spend considerable time and resources conditioning their birds for increased stamina and strength. This preparation includes a regimented diet, exercises, and even practice fights. The physical condition of the cocks is paramount, as a well-prepared bird significantly increases its owner’s chances of victory.

Note that while not all fights are to the death, it’s still a hot topic for animal rights. 

Attaching Metal Spurs

One of the most distinctive aspects of a cockfight is the use of metal spurs, which are attached to the birds’ legs. Traditionally, these are attached to the left leg, but configurations can vary. These spurs, which can be single-edged or double-edged blades, are intended to mimic the natural fighting spurs of a wild rooster but are much sharper and more lethal. The attachment of these blades is a highly skilled task, requiring precision to ensure they are secure and will not cause undue harm to the cock before the fight.

Role of the Sentensyador

The referee, known locally as the sentensyador, plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and flow of the match. The sentensyador’s responsibilities include starting the fight, intervening if necessary, and declaring the winner. The rules enforced by the sentensyador are critical and can vary significantly from one region to another, reflecting local traditions and norms. These might include how fights are initiated, what constitutes a fair fight, and how victories are determined.

The Match

Once the fight begins, it is a direct and often brutal contest of strength, agility, and instinct between two cocks. The goal is to incapacitate the opponent, and due to the lethal nature of the attached spurs, fights can often result in severe injuries or death. Matches are typically quick, with most concluding within a few minutes. The outcome is determined either when one cock fails to continue fighting or is physically unable to do so.

While the mechanics of the fight are straightforward, the ethical and cultural layers surrounding cockfighting are complex. For participants and many spectators, cockfighting is a traditional sport imbued with historical significance and a sense of identity. However, it also raises significant ethical questions about animal welfare and the morality of using animals in such a violent capacity for human entertainment.

These rituals and practices make cockfighting not just a sport but a deeply ingrained aspect of cultural heritage in the Philippines, reflecting the dualities of tradition and modernity, entertainment and brutality, community bonding, and individual competition.

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How big is the cockfighting industry in the Philippines?

The cockfighting industry in the Philippines is substantial, often described as a multi-billion dollar industry. It encompasses various economic activities, including betting, which is the primary revenue generator. 

The advent of platforms like online sabong has significantly expanded the industry’s reach, allowing for continuous betting activities that extend far beyond traditional physical cockfighting arenas. Additionally, the industry supports a vibrant breeding sector where high-quality gamecocks can fetch thousands of dollars each. Event hosting and the sale of related paraphernalia further contribute to the industry’s economic size. World Slasher Cup Derbies and World Gamefowl Expo are among the biggest cock fight events. 

Despite its economic contribution, the industry faces significant ethical and legal challenges. Cock fighting is criticized by animal rights groups for cruelty, and there are ongoing debates about its morality and legality. Furthermore, it is often linked with illegal gambling and organized crime, particularly in unauthorized venues. The future of this industry may hinge on its ability to balance cultural significance with increasing pressure for stricter legal oversight, influencing how it adapts and possibly reforms in response to these growing concerns.

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Legal Framework and Economic Impact of Fighting Cocks

Cockfighting in the Philippines operates within a complex legal and economic framework. While cockfighting remains legal, it is tightly regulated. Legal cockfights occur in regulated cockpits on Sundays and legal holidays, as well as during local fiestas, which can last up to three days. The sport has grown into a billion-dollar industry, with significant contributions to the local economy through both legal and online venues, such as online sabong, which has expanded the reach and financial impact of the sport through digital technology.

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Controversies and Ethical Considerations: Gamecocks Endure Significant Physical Trauma

Despite its popularity, sabong has faced criticism from animal rights organizations and advocates of animal rights. The sport is seen as a blood sport where fighting cocks suffer from not only physical trauma but also from the inherently cruel practices involved in preparing and conducting fights. The violent nature of the sport and the gambling associated with it have sparked debates about the moral and ethical implications of sabong.

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Modern Cockfighting and Animal Fighting

As the world becomes more digitally connected, online sabong, or e-sabong, is gaining traction. It allows people to participate remotely as a popular pastime, placing a minimum bet. This evolution raises questions about the future of traditional sabong, which balances modernity with tradition.

Sabong, with its deep historical roots and significant impact on Philippine culture and economy, remains a complex symbol of Filipino identity. It reminds us of the country’s rich, albeit controversial, cultural heritage and the ongoing struggle between tradition and modern ethical standards.