E-Sabong in the Philippines’ Online Sabong iGaming Industry

Table of Contents

Why and How the Government Supported Its Growth

By Carlos Mendoza, Rooster Breeding Specialist in the Philippines

As someone who’s spent decades in the world of cockfighting, or sabong, I’ve seen its transformation firsthand. My role as a breeder involves raising and training the best roosters, meticulously selecting the right breeds for competition. But today, the sport has evolved, especially with the rise of online sabong iGaming. The Philippine government’s legalization of e-sabong didn’t just affect traditional breeders like myself but also opened up a new era in online gambling and national revenue.

In this article, I’ll explain how and why the Philippine government initially supported the growth of e-sabong, focusing on the economic potential they saw, and the legal framework they put in place to regulate it. Through my experiences, I’ll also share how this shift impacted rooster breeders, both positively and negatively.

Why Did the Philippine Government Support E-Sabong?

The government’s decision to legalize e-sabong wasn’t made overnight. It stemmed from several economic and political factors.

A. Economic Potential: Filling Gaps in National Revenue

Revenue Generation: The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the Philippine economy. The government faced an urgent need for new revenue streams, and e-sabong presented itself as a prime candidate. With millions of Filipinos already participating in physical cockfighting, the transition to an online platform was natural. E-sabong quickly became a source of substantial tax income.
Job Creation: E-sabong didn’t just provide gambling opportunities; it created jobs. From digital platform managers to marketing teams, hundreds of Filipinos were employed to run these operations. For breeders like myself, the demand for high-quality roosters also spiked.

B. Digital Innovation in Traditional Industries

Embracing Technology: The government recognized that online sabong iGaming was an opportunity to modernize a traditional industry. Digital innovation allowed more people to engage in sabong, even from remote areas. This shift aligned with the government’s goal to integrate more sectors into the digital economy.

C. Widespread Popularity and Demand

Public Interest: Sabong has deep cultural roots in the Philippines, and with internet access becoming more widespread, people were eager for a digital version. By legalizing it, the government could control its rapid growth, ensuring that it remained safe and regulated.

How the Government Legalized Online Sabong

The path to legalizing e-sabong involved multiple steps, ranging from consultations with stakeholders to establishing strict regulations.

A. Initial Government Framework for E-Sabong

Regulatory Consultation: The government didn’t act unilaterally. They first held consultations with key stakeholders, including platform operators, breeders, and legal experts. I was part of discussions around animal welfare, where we highlighted the importance of ensuring roosters were treated humanely.
Regulating Bodies: To formalize the framework, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) was given the mandate to oversee e-sabong operations. This ensured transparency and accountability. PAGCOR licensed online operators and set strict guidelines for operation.

B. Licensing Requirements for E-Sabong Operators

Licensing and Fees: Operators were required to obtain licenses from PAGCOR, paying significant fees to ensure they met the legal standards. This allowed the government to monitor all activities and collect taxes on winnings and bets.
Operator Standards: Strict criteria were established for who could run an e-sabong platform. The government focused on financial stability, requiring operators to prove they could handle the large volume of transactions and payouts.

C. Legal Framework for E-Sabong

Legislative Action: A key part of the government’s plan was to pass legislation specifically regulating e-sabong. Laws were enacted to protect players, ensure fairness, and promote responsible gambling practices.
Taxation Policies: The revenue from e-sabong was subject to both income and excise taxes. The government implemented measures to track winnings and collect taxes efficiently. This taxation system was a win for the economy, generating millions in funds.

Economic Benefits of Legalized E-Sabong

Online Sabong Animal Welfare quickly became a significant contributor to the national economy. Let’s explore some of the direct benefits that the government saw, especially during the height of the pandemic.

A. Revenue for the Government

Taxation: One of the most obvious benefits of legalizing e-sabong was the tax revenue. Since the government tightly controlled online platforms, they could easily monitor financial flows and ensure taxes were paid correctly.
Sustaining Social Programs: The taxes collected from e-sabong were funneled into various social programs. From education to healthcare, the government used this income to support vital sectors that were suffering during the pandemic.

B. Boosting Employment in the iGaming Sector

Job Creation: E-sabong didn’t just benefit the government; it created thousands of jobs in the technology and entertainment industries. The platforms required engineers, customer service agents, marketing specialists, and more.
New Opportunities for Breeders: As a breeder, I saw increased demand for my roosters. With e-sabong booming, there was a need for more frequent matches, which meant more business for us breeders. We had to adjust our breeding practices to keep up with demand, focusing on training roosters that would perform well on camera.

C. Tourism and International Interest

International Expansion: E-sabong attracted attention from other countries as well. Filipinos living abroad could now participate in traditional sabong from wherever they were, boosting the number of international players. The government saw this as an opportunity to expand its digital tourism initiatives.

Legal Safeguards in the Regulation of Online Sabong

While the economic benefits were clear, the government also took steps to address concerns about the potential risks of e-sabong, from gambling addiction to animal welfare similar to Sexy Baccarat.

A. Player Protection and Responsible Gambling Initiatives

Age Restrictions: The government made it mandatory for operators to enforce strict age verification. Only players 21 and older could participate in online sabong. This protected minors from getting involved in gambling.
Gambling Addiction Resources: To combat addiction, the government worked with health organizations to provide resources for problem gamblers. Operators were required to offer self-exclusion options, where players could voluntarily restrict their own access.

B. Ensuring Fairness and Transparency

Auditing of Operators: Regular audits were performed to ensure that operators were following all rules. Platforms had to be transparent with their algorithms and financial records, ensuring fairness for all players.
Preventing Fraud: The government implemented digital safeguards to prevent fraud or tampering during matches. Players had peace of mind knowing that the matches were genuine, and results were not manipulated.

Impact on Rooster Breeders and Animal Welfare

As someone deeply involved in the breeding and care of roosters, I witnessed firsthand how e-sabong changed our practices and raised new concerns regarding animal welfare.

A. Adjusting Breeding Practices for E-Sabong

Demand for Camera-Ready Roosters: In online matches, roosters are seen by a global audience. Breeders like me had to adapt by training roosters not just for strength but also agility and stamina, knowing that audiences would scrutinize their performance in real-time.
Health and Care Prioritization: With the increased visibility, breeders became more conscious of animal welfare. We had to ensure that our roosters were in peak health, as mistreatment could be spotted easily by viewers and regulators. This drove us to adopt better care practices.

B. Animal Welfare Regulations in E-Sabong

Government Oversight on Welfare: The government mandated specific animal welfare guidelines for e-sabong operators. Roosters had to be treated humanely, with clear rules on how they should be cared for before and after matches.
Penalties for Violations: Operators who didn’t adhere to these regulations faced stiff penalties. This sent a strong message that animal cruelty wouldn’t be tolerated in the e-sabong industry.

Breeder in the Online Sabong Landscape

In this new landscape, the role of breeders has become more critical than ever. Let me share some insights on how we’ve adjusted to this digital age.

A. Selecting the Right Breeds for Online Matches

Fighting Breeds in High Demand: For online sabong, some breeds have gained more popularity because of their performance traits. These include the Kelso, Sweater, and Hatch, all known for their speed and endurance.
Focus on Agility and Quick Reflexes: Online matches are fast-paced, and viewers love to see quick and agile roosters. Breeders need to prioritize these traits when selecting breeding pairs.

B. Training Roosters for E-Sabong Matches

Training Regimens: Roosters are trained daily for stamina and reflexes. We focus on endurance since online matches can be longer and more intense than traditional ones.
Mental Preparation: Just like in physical cockfights, roosters need mental toughness. We train them to handle the stress of bright lights, camera equipment, and a different fighting environment.

Online Sabong and Government Regulation

While e-sabong has been banned recently, it’s important to reflect on its future.

A. Potential for Return with Stronger Regulations

There’s talk about e-sabong returning in a more controlled format, with even tighter regulations. Should this happen, the government will likely focus on responsible gambling and stricter welfare rules for breeders and operators.

B. Lessons Learned for Future iGaming Platforms

The rise and fall of e-sabong teach us that while online gambling has immense economic potential, it must be approached carefully. As breeders, we must stay informed and be ready to adapt to the shifting regulatory landscape.

E-Sabong’s Role in the Philippines’ iGaming Market

As a dedicated rooster breeder, I have spent my life raising, training, and perfecting roosters for traditional sabong (cockfighting). With the rise of online sabong iGaming, I saw firsthand how this digital version of a centuries-old practice dramatically reshaped our industry. While my focus has always been on preparing the finest fighting roosters, I cannot overlook how e-sabong brought financial growth not only to the cockfighting community but to the entire Philippine economy. In this article, I will explore how e-sabong contributed to the iGaming industry, spurred job creation, and boosted government revenues.

The Rapid Growth of E-Sabong in the iGaming Market

E-sabong’s rise was fast and explosive, moving from local arenas to online platforms, which opened up new opportunities in the iGaming sector.

A. Expansion of the iGaming Sector

Digital Transformation of Sabong: When e-sabong moved online, it was a game-changer. Traditional sabong enthusiasts now had the convenience of participating in cockfights from anywhere. This expanded the market significantly, attracting a wider audience.
Global Reach: Before e-sabong, the sport was mainly limited to live events within the Philippines. Online platforms brought the game to international viewers, including overseas Filipino workers who wanted to stay connected to their homeland traditions. This influx of players meant more revenue for both local and global operators in the iGaming industry.

B. Increase in Player Base and Betting Volume

Betting Accessibility: The ease of placing bets online, as opposed to traveling to physical cockpits, brought more people into the game. Players could log in through their phones or computers, making gambling more accessible than ever before.
High Betting Volume: With more players engaging in online sabong, the betting volume increased exponentially. Matches that would normally draw a few hundred people at physical cockfights now had thousands of bettors online. This spike in betting activities resulted in significant profits for operators and the broader iGaming market.

C. Technological Infrastructure for E-Sabong

Development of Digital Platforms: E-sabong wouldn’t have been possible without the technological infrastructure that supported live-streaming matches, secure betting, and efficient payouts. These platforms invested in cutting-edge technologies to offer a seamless and engaging user experience.
Innovation in Betting Systems: Unlike traditional sabong where betting was often informal, online sabong introduced advanced betting systems, allowing for more sophisticated odds and payouts. This further boosted participation and contributed to the rapid financial growth of e-sabong.

Financial Contributions of E-Sabong to the iGaming Industry

The economic impact of online sabong iGaming was significant. The sector saw massive financial inflows as e-sabong became a top revenue generator.

A. Revenue Growth for iGaming Operators

Profitable Business Model: E-sabong platforms operated with low overhead costs compared to traditional arenas. There were no physical venues to maintain, no gatekeepers, and minimal staff. As a result, most of the revenue generated from betting went directly to platform operators.
Consistent Earnings: The demand for e-sabong matches was consistent, leading to steady earnings. Matches could be streamed continuously, with multiple bouts in a day, allowing platforms to capitalize on continuous betting cycles. This regular stream of revenue was unlike physical cockfights, which were often limited by the schedules of live events.

B. Partnership with Payment Providers

Seamless Transactions: One of the key financial components of e-sabong’s success was the seamless integration of secure payment systems. Partnerships with digital payment providers, such as e-wallets and online banking services, made it easy for players to deposit and withdraw funds.
Instantaneous Payouts: Fast and reliable payouts increased player trust in the platforms. This enhanced the reputation of the iGaming industry, encouraging repeat betting and higher volumes.

C. Boosting Related Sectors

Advertising and Marketing: E-sabong also spurred the growth of adjacent sectors, particularly digital advertising and marketing. Operators spent millions to promote their platforms, hiring teams to manage online campaigns and player outreach, further driving revenues in the wider iGaming industry.
Livestreaming and Broadcasting Services: Livestreaming platforms, which host e-sabong events, benefited greatly. The demand for high-quality, real-time streaming of matches created a revenue stream for tech companies that provided the infrastructure. With millions of people tuning in, these platforms became a vital part of the iGaming ecosystem.

Job Creation Through Online Sabong

The rise of online sabong iGaming created thousands of jobs across various sectors, from tech to traditional roles like breeding and training roosters.

A. Technology and Platform Management

Software Development: The boom of e-sabong created jobs for software developers and engineers to build and maintain the digital platforms. These developers were responsible for ensuring that the betting systems worked smoothly, payments were secure, and the user experience was optimized.
Customer Support: With the surge in player participation came a need for robust customer support teams. These teams handled everything from technical difficulties to payment issues, providing vital services to keep platforms running smoothly.

B. Marketing and Content Creation

Digital Marketing Jobs: Marketing e-sabong platforms required large digital campaigns, employing graphic designers, social media managers, and content creators. Many of these jobs were created to boost brand awareness and attract players to the various e-sabong platforms.
Content Creators for Streaming: The need for commentary, analysis, and match coverage gave rise to jobs in content creation. Professionals in video production, live broadcasting, and content writing were employed to provide engaging material for the audience.

C. Jobs for Breeders and Trainers

Increased Demand for Breeders: As a rooster breeder myself, I can say that e-sabong significantly increased the demand for high-quality fighting roosters. Matches were held more frequently, and with larger audiences, breeders had to step up production.
Employment in Training Facilities: Rooster training schools also saw growth. These facilities employed additional trainers to ensure roosters were well-prepared for the highly competitive nature of e-sabong matches.

Government Revenues and E-Sabong’s Economic Impact

E-sabong didn’t just benefit private operators; the Philippine government reaped significant rewards from the industry as well.

A. Taxation and Licensing Fees

Direct Tax Contributions: One of the biggest benefits for the government was the tax income generated by e-sabong operators. Both income and excise taxes were collected from platform operators, while winnings were also subject to taxation.
Licensing Fees: The government also charged substantial fees to e-sabong platforms for the licenses they required to operate legally. These fees went into government coffers, further boosting national revenue.

B. Funding Social Programs and Economic Relief

Allocating E-Sabong Revenue: The revenue collected from e-sabong was used to fund social programs. During the pandemic, when other sectors of the economy struggled, e-sabong became a key source of funding for healthcare, education, and infrastructure projects.
Economic Relief Measures: With the country in financial distress due to the pandemic, the government used revenues from e-sabong to fund relief packages for affected industries and individuals. This helped stabilize the economy during challenging times.

C. Infrastructure Development

Investing in Public Projects: The increase in government revenue also allowed for more investment in infrastructure projects. E-sabong taxes contributed to road construction, digital infrastructure, and even improvements in rural areas that needed better connectivity for accessing online platforms.

The Ripple Effect on Local Economies

Beyond the national level, the economic benefits of e-sabong trickled down to local communities, particularly in rural areas where many traditional breeders and trainers like myself are based.

A. Boosting Rural Employment

New Employment Opportunities: Many jobs related to e-sabong, such as raising and training roosters, remained in rural areas. This provided consistent income for farmers and breeders, stabilizing local economies.
Supporting Small Businesses: In addition to breeders, e-sabong also supported local businesses, such as feed suppliers, veterinarians, and equipment manufacturers. The need for high-quality feed and medical care for roosters created a demand for these goods and services, which further boosted the rural economy.

B. Community Development Projects

Government Investments: With the government collecting significant revenues from e-sabong, part of these funds was allocated to developing rural areas. Infrastructure improvements, such as internet connectivity and better roads, were made to ensure the smooth operation of e-sabong in remote regions.

Convenience Meets Culture

As a rooster breeder in the Philippines, I’ve dedicated my life to preparing and training roosters for sabong—a practice deeply rooted in our culture. But the rise of online sabong iGaming brought significant changes. While e-sabong offered financial opportunities, it also introduced serious social problems, like addiction, family breakdown, and rising crime. In this article, I’ll discuss the dark side of online sabong from my perspective as a breeder, and how it affected communities, families, and society at large.

A. The Cultural Connection to Sabong

Historical Significance: Sabong has long been part of Filipino traditions. Families gathered around cockpits to watch matches, and for many, it was a source of pride to own a winning rooster. This cultural aspect made e-sabong instantly appealing.
The Shift to Digital: E-sabong made it possible for enthusiasts to continue participating without going to physical arenas. It capitalized on this cultural connection, creating an easy transition from traditional cockfighting to online platforms.

B. The Lure of Easy Access and Betting Convenience

Betting 24/7: E-sabong platforms allowed people to bet anytime, anywhere. There were no restrictions on location or time, making it easier for participants to engage more frequently, which often led to over-involvement.
Accessibility through Mobile Devices: With the rise of mobile technology, people could gamble through their smartphones, further increasing the appeal. No longer did they need to travel or spend time away from home to participate.

Addiction and the Rise of Gambling Problems

One of the most pressing social issues that emerged from online sabong iGaming was gambling addiction.

A. How E-Sabong Contributed to Gambling Addiction

Constant Availability: Unlike traditional sabong, which took place on scheduled dates, Online Sabong iGaming was available at any time of the day. This led many players to fall into compulsive gambling habits.
Psychological Traps of Online Betting: Online Sabong iGaming platforms often promoted ‘instant wins’ and provided the illusion of easy money. Players frequently believed they could recover losses quickly, which made addiction worse.

B. Impact on Mental Health and Well-being

Financial Stress Leading to Mental Strain: Many individuals began spending more than they could afford, leading to significant financial difficulties. The stress of losing money often led to anxiety, depression, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
Isolation and Detachment: Addicted gamblers often withdrew from family and social interactions. The addictive nature of Online Sabong iGaming created a cycle where people spent more time betting and less time engaging in meaningful relationships.

C. Real-life Stories of Addiction

I’ve heard countless stories from friends and neighbors about how Online Sabong iGaming took over their lives. Some started betting small amounts but gradually spiraled into addiction, borrowing money from friends or even loan sharks just to gamble. The constant pressure to recover lost bets drove them deeper into debt.

Impact on Families and Relationships

While addiction affected individuals, it also left a lasting impact on families and relationships.

A. Financial Struggles and Family Tensions

Debt Accumulation: One of the most common issues was the accumulation of debts. Online Sabong iGaming made it easy to lose track of finances, leading some individuals to sell personal belongings, including household items, just to settle gambling debts.
Family Conflicts: As a breeder, I met people who would come to buy roosters with the last bit of money they had, hoping for a lucky win. Sadly, many of them faced conflicts at home, with spouses or family members who had no idea they were gambling away their income. These family tensions often resulted in separation or divorce.

B. Neglect of Responsibilities

Work and Family Neglect: Some people got so caught up in Online Sabong iGaming that they neglected their work and household responsibilities. Stories of absentee fathers and breadwinners who were no longer providing for their families became common in our communities.
Impact on Children: Children of addicted gamblers suffered too. Many grew up in homes filled with stress and financial uncertainty. The addiction to e-sabong even led to instances where children dropped out of school to help their families recover from debts.

C. Emotional Toll on Families

I’ve seen firsthand how the emotional toll of gambling addiction has wrecked families. When one member falls into gambling, it’s not just about the money; it’s about trust, communication, and stability. Families affected by Online Sabong iGaming often ended up in therapy or needed community intervention to restore relationships.

The Link Between E-Sabong and Crime

The increase in gambling problems due to e-sabong also led to a surge in related criminal activities.

A. Financial Desperation Leading to Crime

Petty Crimes to Repay Debts: Individuals addicted to e-sabong often found themselves in financial desperation. Many resorted to petty theft, fraud, or embezzlement to cover their debts or finance further gambling.
Loan Shark Dependency: In rural areas, I heard stories of gamblers borrowing from loan sharks, only to be trapped in a cycle of high-interest repayments. This underground economy further complicated the issue, often leading to violence and threats.

B. Organized Crime’s Involvement

Illegal Betting Syndicates: While e-sabong was initially regulated, the massive demand led to the rise of unlicensed, underground platforms. These platforms, often run by organized crime groups, operated outside the legal framework, exposing players to greater risks.
Rooster Theft and Sabotage: As a breeder, I personally dealt with the threat of rooster theft. The high value of competitive roosters attracted thieves looking to make quick money by selling them to illegal operators or other breeders.

C. Violence and Disputes Over Bets

Physical Altercations: In the communities I worked in, it wasn’t uncommon to hear of fights breaking out due to unpaid debts or disputes over the outcomes of matches. These altercations sometimes escalated into violence, creating tensions in small towns and rural areas.
Threats Against Families: In extreme cases, loan sharks or those owed money would resort to threatening family members to force repayment. This added another layer of danger, making gambling addiction even more destructive.

The Government’s Response and Its Impact on E-Sabong

Recognizing the social fallout from e-sabong, the government eventually stepped in to address these issues.

A. Initial Government Measures to Control E-Sabong

Age Restrictions and Gambling Limits: Early on, the government attempted to enforce regulations such as age restrictions and betting limits. However, these measures weren’t always effective, as players found ways to bypass the system.
Awareness Campaigns: The government also launched campaigns to raise awareness about responsible gambling and the risks of addiction. Unfortunately, the fast-paced growth of e-sabong made it difficult for these campaigns to keep up with the growing number of players.

B. Banning E-Sabong: A Drastic Measure

Decision to Ban: As addiction rates soared and crime increased, the government made the decision to ban e-sabong altogether. This was a tough blow for many, including myself as a breeder, but it was necessary to protect the larger population from the harmful effects.
Impact on the Breeding Industry: While the ban may have stopped the bleeding for families and communities, it left the rooster breeding industry at a crossroads. Many breeders, myself included, had to adjust to the sudden lack of demand for high-quality fighting roosters.

C. Social Programs for Rehabilitation

Support for Addicted Gamblers: After the ban, the government introduced programs to help individuals recover from gambling addiction. Counseling and financial management workshops were offered to assist those affected by e-sabong.
Community Rehabilitation: Communities hardest hit by the social consequences of e-sabong were given resources to rebuild. Local governments initiated workshops on mental health and financial literacy to prevent future problems.

Healing Communities Affected by E-Sabong

While e-sabong’s economic benefits were undeniable, the social costs were severe. Now, it’s time to focus on healing.

A. Rebuilding Trust and Relationships

Restoring Family Bonds: For many families, the path to recovery involves rebuilding trust. After addiction, regaining lost trust takes time and effort, but community support can help facilitate this process.
Strengthening Community Support Systems: Communities need to rally around those affected by gambling addiction. Support groups, therapy sessions, and peer counseling can make a huge difference in recovery.

B. Financial Education and Prevention

Promoting Responsible Spending: Education programs that teach financial management and responsible spending can help prevent future addiction. Learning how to manage money wisely is essential for individuals who have been hurt by gambling losses.
Preventative Measures Against Future Addictions: More emphasis needs to be placed on early intervention and education to stop gambling addiction before it starts. Schools and community centers can offer courses to raise awareness about the dangers of online gambling.

My Perspective as a Breeder: A Changing Landscape

As someone who has been part of the sabong industry for decades, the rise and fall of online sabong iGaming taught me a lot. While the digital transition opened new doors, it also revealed serious risks.

A. Balancing Tradition with Responsibility

As breeders, we need to ensure we support ethical practices, whether in traditional cockfighting or online. The rise of e-sabong reminded me that we must always consider the larger societal impacts of our work.

B. Moving Forward Together

The lessons from e-sabong’s social impact must not be forgotten. As we look to the future, it’s crucial to find ways to keep the cultural practice of sabong alive without falling into the traps of addiction, crime, and social harm.

How COVID-19 Accelerated the Popularity Online Sabong

As a rooster breeder in the Philippines, I have spent years preparing and training roosters for traditional sabong matches. This ancient sport has been a cornerstone of Filipino culture for generations. However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional cockfighting arenas were forced to shut down, leaving breeders like myself, bettors, and spectators alike in a difficult situation. That’s when online sabong iGaming began to explode in popularity. With physical activities restricted, e-sabong became an accessible form of entertainment and a source of income during lockdowns.

A. Impact of Government Restrictions on Sabong Arenas

Temporary Arena Closures: When the government imposed strict lockdowns and social distancing measures, traditional sabong arenas were among the first venues to shut down. These closures left thousands of enthusiasts without a way to participate in their favorite pastime.
Suspension of Gatherings: Sabong is often a large social event, with hundreds of spectators gathered to watch the matches. Public health protocols restricted mass gatherings, making it impossible for physical sabong matches to resume.

B. Economic Impact on Breeders and Sabong Operators

Loss of Livelihood: For breeders like myself, these restrictions meant a loss of income. With no physical matches, the demand for fighting roosters plummeted. We were left caring for roosters with no opportunity to sell them or showcase their abilities.
Arena Staff Layoffs: Cockfighting arenas and local operators were also affected. Many had to lay off staff, from bet takers to security personnel, as there was no business to sustain operations.

E-Sabong as a Source of Income During Economic Uncertainty

The pandemic didn’t just create entertainment demand—it also created economic hardship. E-sabong stepped in as a new income stream for both bettors and breeders.

A. E-Sabong for Bettors: A New Way to Earn

Opportunities for Quick Wins: For many Filipinos, e-sabong provided a way to earn quick cash during financially tough times. With matches happening frequently, bettors saw e-sabong as an opportunity to supplement lost income.
Minimal Investment, High Returns: Unlike other forms of gambling, Online Sabong iGaming allowed bettors to place small wagers, making it more accessible. A bettor could start with a small amount and potentially win significant payouts if they backed the right rooster.

B. Breeders’ New Revenue Stream

Online Matches Kept Demand for Roosters Alive: As a breeder, I saw how Online Sabong iGaming kept our industry afloat. Despite the pandemic, the demand for high-quality fighting roosters remained strong because online platforms needed a steady supply for matches.
Increased Competition Among Breeders: With more matches being streamed online, breeders had to ensure their roosters were in top form to attract buyers. This meant adapting our breeding practices for roosters that could perform well on camera and in a digital format.

C. Commission Opportunities for Match Organizers

Monetizing Matches Online: Match organizers who transitioned to Online Sabong iGaming platforms benefited financially from commissions on bets placed during the matches. With no physical arena overhead costs, these digital events were more cost-effective and lucrative for organizers.

The Shift in Rooster Breeding and Training During the Pandemic

The pandemic not only accelerated the digital transition but also influenced how we, as breeders, approached our work.

A. Training Roosters for Digital Matches

Adapting to Camera Performance: With online matches, the visibility of the roosters’ performance became a new focus. Breeders like myself had to ensure our roosters were not only physically prepared but also able to perform well under the scrutiny of live-streamed matches.
Shorter Recovery Times Between Matches: With the increased frequency of matches online, breeders had to be mindful of how often roosters fought. Managing their recovery became essential to ensure they were ready for the next bout.

B. Breeding for Demand

Specializing in High-Performance Roosters: With online matches constantly in demand, breeders had to focus on producing roosters with traits that would make them stand out in competitive environments. Agility, endurance, and aggression were prioritized.
Health and Safety of Roosters: We also had to maintain strict health regimens for our roosters, as any sign of weakness could affect their performance and reputation in the online arena.

Conclusion

In conclusion, online sabong iGaming dramatically transformed the landscape of cockfighting in the Philippines, bringing new opportunities but also new challenges. The Philippine government initially saw its potential to boost revenue, create jobs, and modernize a traditional industry. However, regulation was key to ensuring its success, especially in balancing economic gains with social responsibility.

For us breeders, the future holds both uncertainty and promise. We must continue to evolve alongside the industry, always prioritizing the welfare of our roosters, whether in the physical or digital arena.