Although their favorite sport is still prohibited under the Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ), cockpit owners and breeders of fighting cocks recently discussed with the Sangguniang Bayan of Virac the proposed guidelines for the reopening of cockpits.
Last May 21, 2020, Catanduanes Breeders Club representative Engr. Bic Abundo, P. Araojo Coliseum owner Prospero Araojo Jr. and pit manager Aristeo Fortades sat down with Virac municipal health officer Dr. Elva Joson and the members of the Committee on Games & Amusement headed by Councilor Reynante Bagadiong.
They were able to come up with several suggestions for rules that would be implemented at all times once the cockpits reopen for the resumption of cockfighting in the capital town of Virac.
If finally allowed to reopen, cockpits would be operated at 50% of the venue capacity, with all individuals maintaining social distancing at least one meter.
Hand-washing facilities and sanitizing areas, as well as footbaths, will be made available at the entrance and exit while the use of face masks and face shields will be mandatory. There will also be disinfection of the comfort rooms after every use.
Cockpit owners will provide thermal scanners at the gates for the mandatory temperature check for aficionados, who will also be prohibited from spitting anywhere inside the facility.
Senior citizens will be required to present medical certificates and will be seated at a section reserved exclusively for the elderly, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) and other vulnerable groups.
The cockpit management shall likewise designated a monitoring or safety officer who shall oversee the implementation of the “new normal” health standards inside the venue.
For its part, the local government unit shall designate a monitoring team to ensure the proper implementation of the guidelines.
According to the SB committee, the recommendations will be considered in the crafting of a new cockfighting ordinance under the “new normal.”