The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod City has unanimously approved an amended ordinance aimed at strengthening regulations on special cockfighting, also known as “pabulang,” for charitable purposes.
Authored by Councilor Caesar Z. Distrito and co-authored by Councilor Dindo Ramos, the new measure introduces two key changes to City Ordinance No. 244.
The goal is to ensure a more consistent and meaningful financial benefits for the community from these events, Distrito said.
The first amendment fixes the minimum financial assistance given to accredited charitable institutions at ₱5,000 per derby day, regardless of the number or type of entries.
Distrito said this guarantees a more substantial and reliable contribution to beneficiaries like daycare centers, non-governmental organizations, and people’s organizations.
The second amendment gives barangays more flexibility by allowing them to hold special cockfights on either their Barangay Day or Charter Day, in addition to their traditional Fiesta Day.
This acknowledges the cultural significance of cockfighting and its role as a way to raise funds for community programs, Distrito said.
The ordinance maintains that “pabulang” events can only be held within two weeks of the fiesta, barangay, or charter day.
Barangays are still limited to conducting these events only twice a year.
“This amendment ensures that our ordinances keep pace with present realities,” Distrito said.
“By fixing the assistance at ₱5,000 per day, we guarantee a more meaningful contribution to charitable causes, while also giving our barangays the opportunity to raise funds for their own programs during their special celebrations”, he said.
The measure also reiterates that the City’s Department of Social Services and Development will strictly monitor contributions to ensure all funds are used for their intended purposes, such as educational materials, daycare center improvements, and capability-building for daycare workers.
The amendatory ordinance will take effect immediately upon the approval of Mayor Greg Gasataya, Distrito said.*