Inside a Philippine cockfighting pit, as post-pandemic changes threaten livelihoods

Cockfighting is often seen as barbaric and banned around the world, but in the Philippines, questions about the blood sport are often framed as a debate over culture versus cruelty. The practice dates back centuries and is inextricably tied to the livelihoods of many Filipinos. Despite protests and lobbying by animal activists, millions of dollars still change hands every day in cockpits across the Philippines. Enthusiasts say cockfighting, known locally as sabong, will not be outlawed any time soon, but the Covid-19 pandemic has proven small changes are already under way. The Post has an in-depth look at one of Manila’s brutal cockfighting operations.