Illegal E-Sabong Thrives Despite Total Ban
Sen. Raffy Tulfo has ignited a political firestorm after publicly slamming the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other law enforcement agencies for allegedly failing to shut down illegal online cockfighting operations—despite a nationwide ban.
During a heated Senate Committee on Games and Amusements hearing, Tulfo accused the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center, and most especially the NBI of either being unable—or unwilling—to dismantle large-scale e-sabong syndicates.
“You’ve taken down small sites,” Tulfo said bluntly. “But you know who the gambling kingpins are. And you cannot touch them.”
The senator even presented live video footage allegedly showing ongoing illegal e-sabong activity in Central Luzon—raising serious questions about enforcement failures.
BIG FISH UNTOUCHED?
Tulfo’s remarks struck a nerve.
While authorities have announced periodic crackdowns, critics point out that arrests often involve small-time operators. The alleged masterminds, Tulfo suggested, remain beyond reach.
He named certain personalities during the hearing, though the accusations remain unproven and must be tested in proper legal proceedings.
Still, one question now dominates public discourse:
Why does illegal e-sabong continue if there is a total ban?
PROTECTION OR INCOMPETENCE?
Rumors have swirled in political circles about alleged “protection money” being funneled to certain officials. These claims remain unverified.
But perception is powerful.
When banned operations allegedly function openly, the public begins to wonder:
•Is there fear inside the system?
• Does it influence shielding powerful figures?
•Is there internal compromise?
•Or is this simply massive incompetence?
Law enforcement agencies have not publicly addressed these rumors in detail.
Silence, critics say, only fuels suspicion.
PODCASTS VS. POLICE WORK
Adding to the controversy is criticism over the NBI’s official podcast program highlighting agency accomplishments.
Transparency is important. Public communication is part of modern governance.
But critics are asking: Is this the priority while illegal gambling allegedly continues?
Under Republic Act 10867, the NBI Modernization Act, the Bureau is mandated to investigate major crimes and enforce special laws. The public expects visible results—raids, arrests, convictions—not just announcements.
RESULTS OR EXCUSES?
The facts on the ground are stark:
A nationwide ban exists.
Illegal operations allegedly persist.
That disconnect is now at the center of Tulfo’s challenge.
Is the NBI under-resourced?
Outgunned by syndicates?
Or simply underperforming?
For many Filipinos, the issue is simple: enforcement should match the law.
‘PROVE US WRONG’
Tulfo has thrown down the gauntlet.
If the NBI is not incompetent, it must prove it through decisive action.
If it is not protecting anyone, it must demonstrate that through high-level arrests and successful prosecutions.
Until then, questions will continue to hound the agency.
The NBI has yet to issue a detailed response to Tulfo’s latest criticisms.
One thing is certain: the public is watching.
And patience is wearing thin.
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