Guv to file charges against 7 officials over “tigbakay”

CEBU, Philippines —  Governor Gwendolyn Garcia vowed to personally file a complaint against the seven local officials in northern Cebu—four town councilors and three barangay captains—for participating in illegal cockfight locally known as “tigbakay” in Daanbantayan over the weekend.

Garcia expressed her disappointment to the seven officials during a press conference yesterday. The governor reminded the public that all forms of gambling, including cockfighting, are prohibited in the province during modified general community quarantine.

“Para nako, mas bug-at imong sala kung opisyal ka mismo kay nanumpa lagi ka, basaha ug balik na’ng inyong oath of office ha,” said Garcia.

“Ako mismo maoy mo-file og kaso batok ninyo under our provincial ordinance,” Garcia added.

Police Regional Office-7 Director Albert Ignatius Ferro announced on Tuesday that four municipal councilors and three barangay captains will be charged for participating in illegal gambling. The municipal councilors were identified as Bernardito Luche of Daanbantayan; Buena Pontillas of Tuburan; Moman Rivera and Abdon Cabahug of Borbon.

The barangay captains are Narciso Osabel of Barangay Maharuhay, Medellin; Arnold Arcipe of Barangay Dayhagon, Medellin; and Rodelo Diamante of Barangay Colonia, Tuburan.

Garcia also warned other government officials who still participate in illegal gambling activities that they will be held accountable.

“Kamo nagpaka uwaw mo sa inyong kaugalingong posisyon, nagpakauwaw mo sa mga tao na nipili ninyo ug misalig ninyo,” Garcia said.

Aside from the seven local officials from northern Cebu, 31 others were arrested in Sitio Tagasa, Barangay Bitoon, Daanbantayan last Saturday. They will be charged with illegal gambling and violation of Republic Act 11332 or the Bayanihan Act, which prohibits any form of mass gathering.  FPL (FREEMAN)