Whistleblower exposes illegal cockfighting ring in Bantayan, Cebu
A formal complaint has been lodged against local officials and police in Bantayan, Cebu, over alleged illegal cockfighting operations. Sando Destura, a cockpit lessor, filed the case with the Office of the Ombudsman on March 26, 2026. The complaint centres on activities at St. Peter Coliseum in Barangay Combado, Ticad, where large-scale events reportedly took place without proper permits.
Destura claims these operations ran every Sunday from February to March 2026, generating over P100,000 per event. He also alleges similar activities occurred in other barangays and private gatherings, some involving minors. According to Destura, St. Peter Coliseum operated without a mayor's business permit or a franchise from the Municipal Council. These are legally required under Presidential Decree 449 and the Local Government Code. The Business Permits and Licensing Office confirmed that no permit was issued for 2026.
Bantayan Vice Mayor Arthur Despi had previously sent letters urging action against the alleged illegal cockfighting. Despite police verification and a directive from the mayor, the operations reportedly continued. Destura's complaint names Bantayan Mayor Orlando Layese, former and current police chiefs, other officers, private individuals, and the coliseum's operator as respondents.
Destura has gathered video footage and affidavits to support his claims. He now seeks criminal and administrative charges, including violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and Presidential Decree 449. However, as of March 30, 2026, the Ombudsman's Office has not taken any legal steps, citing the short four-day window since the complaint was filed.
The whistleblower has also expressed concerns for his safety and that of his witnesses. He believes the respondents' influence poses a risk to those involved in the case. The complaint remains under review by the Ombudsman's Office, with no immediate action taken. Destura's allegations include large-scale illegal operations, lack of required permits, and involvement of minors. The case now awaits further investigation and potential legal proceedings against the named officials and individuals.
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