BIR seizes nearly 300 illegal betting devices from cockfighting venues

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has uncovered nearly 300 illegal betting machines and related equipment operating in cockfighting establishments across Metro Manila and Southern Luzon, the agency announced Wednesday.

Investigators discovered a total of 297 betting machines, computerized betting units, servers, and other associated devices spread across 11 cockfight venues. All of the equipment was found to be operating without the required permits or authorization from relevant authorities.

The discovery represents a significant enforcement action against unauthorized gambling operations within the country's cockfighting industry. The machines, which facilitate wagering on cockfight matches, had been operating in violation of internal revenue regulations and gambling licensing requirements.

The BIR's findings underscore ongoing concerns about unlicensed betting infrastructure in the Philippines, where cockfighting remains a popular but heavily regulated activity. The agency has not yet disclosed details regarding enforcement actions or penalties against the establishments where the devices were discovered.