MANILA — The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading a bill seeking to impose a total ban on online cockfighting or e-sabong in the country—a move hailed by CIBAC Party-List Representative Bro. Eddie Villanueva as a “long overdue” victory for Filipino families harmed by digital gambling.

House Bill No. 11254, authored by Villanueva, prohibits all forms of online betting related to cockfighting and invalidates all previous permits granted by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) for such operations. The measure also mandates government cybercrime agencies to actively monitor and block e-sabong platforms.

In a statement, Villanueva, a long-time advocate of moral governance, said the passage of the bill was both a legal and ethical necessity.

“This Representation has been a personal witness on how e-sabong devastated lives and families. Its eradication is both a legal and moral imperative,” Villanueva said. “We must not allow profit and greed to nip the fortune and lives of many Filipino people.”

The bill lays out hefty penalties for violators: up to 20 years in prison and fines reaching ₱5 million. Harsher penalties are reserved for public officials or business operators who facilitate the illegal activity.

Villanueva said the bill’s approval signals more than just legislative consensus—it affirms a shared stand for public welfare.

“This vote reflects a resounding moral stand. Let us safeguard our people, especially the poor, from the destructive schemes of greedy individuals profiting through digital means,” he said.

The measure now awaits Senate action before it can be enacted into law.

The Citizens’ Battle Against Corruption (CIBAC) Party-list, led by Rep. Bro. Eddie Villanueva, is the longest-serving party-list group in the country, having won seats in Congress since 2001. Over the years, it has played a key role in the passage of 223 laws, including the Anti-Red Tape Act, Anti-Money Laundering Act, Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) Law, and Ease of Doing Business Act.

📷 CIBAC