Estan Cabigas

Cockfighting has been a favorite sport and pastime in the Philippines for generations. In each town and city, a gallera, a cockfighting arena, is a permanent fixture that comes alive during weekends and special play dates when several (generally) men come either with their fighting cocks or to bet on a favored bird.

Behind the scenes, frantic bird owners are sizing up each other and when both parties agree, the fighting cock is then prepared. Long and sharp blades are affixed at the talons and then come face to face at the arena. Once the betting starts, the cristos, bet collectors, call on the men to place their money on a particular bird and the gallera can become chaotic with almost everyone screaming and calling out. After a few minutes, silence envelopes the place as the most awaited dance to the death, a pas de deux will be witnessed.