AGAP Partylist Representative Nicanor Briones has confirmed that he was the lawmaker seen in a viral video watching a cockfight on his cellphone during a House session on Monday. However, Briones firmly denied allegations that the video involved e-sabong, the banned online cockfighting platform.
“Malinis ang konsensiya ko. Hindi naman ako nagsasabong… fake news,” Briones told reporters, insisting that he neither gambles nor owns digital wallets like GCash. He clarified that the video came from a relative who had invited him to sponsor a traditional sabong derby, not engage in online gambling.
The viral clip sparked public criticism, prompting Briones to explain his side. He said the message was unsolicited and that he immediately decided against participating. “Hindi rin naman ako interesado… May gustong sumabotahe sa atin,” Briones claimed, implying political sabotage may be behind the incident, possibly from parties he has opposed, including smugglers.
Briones expressed regret over the situation, saying it may have inadvertently tainted the image of the House of Representatives. “Nagso-sorry ako… nadadamay ang institusyon,” he said, emphasizing that his brief interaction with the message was misinterpreted.
He also addressed the issue of privacy, saying the video was taken without his consent, potentially violating the Data Privacy Act. Despite this, he extended forgiveness to the person responsible: “Kung sinuman ang gumawa… pinatatawad na kita. ‘Wag mo na uulitin kasi baka sa susunod, makulong ka na.”
To address the wider issue of online gambling, Briones announced plans to file legislation calling for a total ban on e-sabong and other forms of online gambling. He stressed the need for stronger safeguards to protect the public from addiction and exploitation.
While the incident has cast a temporary spotlight on Briones, he hopes his explanation will clear his name and refocus attention on his legislative efforts, particularly his anti-smuggling advocacy.