Viral cockfight video incident in Congress may trigger House ethics probe

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MANILA, Philippines — Rep. Nicanor Briones (AGAP Party-list) could face a House ethics probe after he was caught watching a cockfight practice video on his phone during a plenary session.

Rep. JC Abalos (4Ps Party-list), who chairs the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges, said on Friday, August 1, that the lower chamber is taking the incident seriously and may open an investigation.

“So I want to let everyone know na hindi natin pinagbalewala o babalewalain ang insidenteng ito. I want everyone to expect, asahan niyo po, na tutuparin ng Committee on Ethics ang aming tungkulin,” he said in an online interview with the media.  

(So I want to let everyone know that we did not and will not ignore this incident. I want you all to expect that the Committee on Ethics will fulfill its duty.)

On July 30, Briones admitted to watching a cockfight practice video during the House speaker vote on July 28, explaining that it was forwarded by a relative encouraging him to buy a rooster and join a traditional derby. 

He, however, denied participating in any online sabong or traditional cockfighting events. 

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While the ethics committee has yet to be finalized, Abalos said they will issue a reminder to all members to observe appropriate behavior both inside and outside Congress.

“Sa pagdedemand ng public accountability and proper decorum from our lawmakers not only when they are in the plenary pati na rin sa labas ng kamara,” he said. 

Abalos also assured that any investigation will proceed through the proper channels. 

“We can’t afford to right a wrong with another wrong,” he added. 

Abalos said he also proposed forming an independent body to handle complaints of ethical misconduct by lawmakers. 

The body would advise the ethics committee on actions to take, seeking to strengthen accountability and transparency processes in the chamber.

Since the committee has not formally convened, Abalos said he would refrain from commenting on legislators watching either traditional or online cockfights.

“And regarding the incident that transpired last July 28, I would have to exercise restraint in my opinion because we must decide, the Committee on Ethics, must decide on facts at the proper form and with the correct procedure,” Abalos said. 

Rep. Rolando Valeriano (Manila, 2nd District), chair of the House Committee on Public Order and Safety, was among those who said the incident warrants attention, calling it improper and out of place.

The House elected Abalos as the committee’s chair on Wednesday, July 30, along with other lawmakers to serve as chairpersons of other standing and special committees. 

The panel’s members have yet to be appointed.