By Rachel Magday

 

SOLANO, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines — Police authorities arrested 26 individuals during an operation against illegal online cockfighting, or e-sabong, at the Solano Cockpit Arena in Barangay Roxas on April 12, 2026.

Police identified several of those arrested as online livestream operators and a cockpit arena supervisor.

The suspects included residents of Nueva Ecija, Baguio City, and Solano, Nueva Vizcaya.

The operation was launched following reports of illegal gambling activities in the area and was led by the Solano Police Station under PMAJ John Anthony S. Sanchez, in coordination with several police and intelligence units.

Investigators said the group is also being linked to a similar illegal e-sabong operation at New Ayaga Cockpit Arena in Abulug, Cagayan on April 11, 2026.

The reported connection is now under investigation as part of the case build-up.

Seized during the operation were ₱616,250 in cash believed to be betting money, betting tickets and receipts, three computer sets, five cellphones, four internet routers, two LED monitors, and other equipment allegedly used in the illegal activity.

The suspects are now in the custody of the Solano Police Station and are expected to face charges for violating Presidential Decree No. 1602 and Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012