Cock-Fighting

That there is cockfighting in Boracay Island only goes to show how prevalent this spectator sport is in the Philippines. Widely popular, cockfighting is another local pastime / activity that can offer you glimpses of the local culture.

Cockfighting has been around for a very long time in the Philippines, with historical records stating its existence as far back as 1837. To this day it remains a passionate activity among Filipinos, including those in Boracay.

If you want to experience first hand what cockfighting in Boracay Island is like, you can take a ride to Balabag and head to one of the several venues that host this spectator sport. The easiest way to get to these arenas is by catching a ride from boat station 2. As is usually the case, you should exercise your bargaining skills to try and get a discount for the trip.

Cockfighting in Boracay Island is no different from that of the other competitions held in other places in the Philippines. You enter the arena and present (or buy) a ticket. The amount you will pay will depend on the type of seat that you have chosen. If you like you can place a bet on one of the cocks. Because there are several fights that take place in one night, there is a list from which you can make your selection.

Once you and all the other members of the audience have placed their bets, the cocks and their handlers enter the cockpit and the battle begins. As with other competitions, cockfighting in Boracay Island means equipping the animals with razor sharp blades around their legs. The fight ends when one of the cocks is killed. The winning handler earns money, having made a wager against his competitor. If you placed a bet on the winning cock, you get to make money too.

The amount of money that you are allowed to bet in cockfighting in Boracay will vary depending on the competition and rules for that particular event. If you want to attend one of these occasions, you should try to buy a ticket as early as possible, as these events are almost always sold out.

These spectacles are invariably held every weekend (Saturdays and Sundays). The big ones, or derbies, are usually held on Sundays. In these special events, the wagers and the crowds are much bigger.

Given the intensity and passion Filipinos have for the sport, the arenas where cockfighting in Boracay is held are always full of excitement and fervor. If this is your cup of tea, you may want to check them out.