Bukidnon stops illegal horse fighting after public backlash

Over 165 horses spared after PETA alerted local authorities.

Bukidnon authorities shut down an illegal horse fighting event scheduled to take place this month, after a graphic image of a similar event went viral.

Local officials in San Fernando, Bukidnon, stopped an illegal horse fighting event scheduled for this month that was expected to involve over 165 horses, said animal welfare group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals.

PETA sent a letter to the San Fernando police, flagging the event as a violation of the Animal Welfare Act (Republic Act No. 8485) and potentially tied to illegal gambling operations.

Section 6 of the Animal Welfare Act explicitly prohibits horse fights, deeming violence and maltreatment of animals unlawful. The killing of any animal that is not approved livestock is only permitted in certain humanitarian and safety contexts, while killings carried out for religious or cultural practices require the necessary permits.

Violators face prison time of six months to two years and a fine ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱5,000.

In horse fighting matches, stallions are deliberately provoked by being restrained in close proximity to a mare, triggering protective mating instincts. Spectators often bet on the outcome, with loud screams and rowdy behavior further overwhelming the horses.

“Horses used in these events frequently suffer deep gashes and broken bones—and some have had their ears ripped off or their eyes knocked out. Those deemed no longer useful may be slaughtered for meat,” PETA said in a statement on September 3.

The purported organizer of the cancelled event took down the announcement post and stopped posting on social media beginning August 25.

The event name and organizer groups carried titles of local indigenous groups as part of their promotions. Linking horse fighting events with local culture was reportedly a practice within the circuit, despite locals decrying the seemingly wrongful association.

“[San Fernando Police Chief PMAJ Arnold D. Formento] spoke with Indigenous residents of San Fernando, who said they wanted no part of horse fighting and accused organizers—described as a large-scale gambling syndicate—of invoking their communities and ‘cultural tradition’ as a cover,” PETA said.

The cancellation also follows public backlash against a graphic image of a horse fight that purportedly took place in San Fernando, Bukidnon.