No more horse fights in North Cotabato fiestas

MAGPET, North Cotabato— Horse fighting, a part of the traditions and beliefs of the indigenous people of Mindanao, will no longer be included in the fiesta celebrations in North Cotabato. Mayor Efren Piñol announced that horse fighting will not be included in the town's foundation day celebration on August 13. He cited the lack of preparation and funds to carry out horse fights. Last year, Animal welfare advocates such as the Manila-based Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) said horse fights should be stopped because it violates animal rights. The enthusiasts, however, said they do not consider horse fighting as a form of cruelty to animals but a sports activity among the tribal chieftains in Southern Philippines. A tribal chieftain from Kidapawan City, who requested for anonymity, said winning in horse fights gives a sense of prestige, honor, and supremacy to the owner of the animal. However, the chieftain said he respected the decision of local government officials in excluding horse fighting from this year's fiesta celebration. In the past, the horse fight participants usually came from the provinces of Bukidnon, Davao del Sur, Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato. These towns sent contingents to compete in the two-day horse derby not only in this town but in other towns of the province celebrating their foundation anniversaries. The town of Magpet is located near the foot of Mount Apo. It is home to various ethnic tribes who loved to watch horse fights during special occasions. –VVP, GMANews.TV