CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the results of the study anchored to the following statement

of the problem: factors that motivated the retired gamblers to quit gambling, challenges

of retired gamblers while they were still actively gambling, and coping strategies of

retired gamblers after quitting cock fighting. This section of the paper was designed to

address the research query while considering the literature review and insights gathered

from the interviews. The outcomes and discourse were structured based on the research

queries and interview prompts, facilitating the identification of patterns and direct

responses provided by the participants.

Factors that Motivated the Gamblers to Quit Gambling

The decision to quit gambling was driven by several powerful factors. Many

gamblers were motivated by the desire to restore their family relationships, as gambling

often caused conflicts and emotional distance from their loved ones. Marital conflicts

were a major factor, as constant arguments and broken trust strained their relationships

with their spouses. Alongside this was the financial crisis they faced, having lost

significant amounts of money, often leaving their families in debt and struggling with

basic needs. Many participants admitted to neglecting their parental obligations, realizing

too late that their gambling habits had taken precious time and resources away from their

children. Some also cited disability or health concerns, whether from accidents or stress-

related illnesses, which made them reassess their priorities and quit gambling. Another
common motivator was the high probability of loss, as repeated failures and the

realization that gambling offered no guaranteed win eventually discouraged them.

Additionally, external warnings and advice from family, friends, and even community

leaders served as wake-up calls that urged them to change. Ultimately, quitting gambling

came down to a conscious decision—a personal choice to break free from the destructive

cycle and rebuild their lives.

The researcher gathered the responses in an in-depth interview with the

participants. For confidentiality, the names of the participants are not included in the

results; however, the responses are coded through Participant 1 to Participant 8 to

differentiate responses from each other. Throughout the analysis of the responses, using

the thematic analysis, the researcher found meaningful and insightful themes that

answered the study’s first question. The results presented below show the factors that

motivated the gamblers to quit gambling. The researchers gathered these factors from the

participants’ responses to the interview questions, which suffice the participants’

motivation to quit gambling.

Marital Conflict

Marital conflict is one of the significant sub-factors that greatly contributed to and

motivated gamblers to quit gambling in cockpits. Participants revealed that constant

disagreements and misunderstandings with their spouses, primarily due to gambling-

related financial struggles and neglect of household responsibilities, pressured them to

stop gambling. This is evident in the responses of Participant number 6, Participant

number 1, Participant number 4 and Participant 5 , who expressed that their spouses
frequently argued with them over their gambling habits, leading to emotional distress

and, in some cases, threats of separation. Some participants also acknowledged that their

gambling diverted their attention from their marital duties, causing a strain on their

relationship.

Participant number 6 said;

Wala nako damha nga ang akong pagkalulong sa sabong

maka-apekto na gyud sa among relasyon. Sa sige nako'g adto,
pasagdan na nako ang mga responsibilidad sa balay. Moingon
akong asawa nga mura na daw kog wala'y paki sa ilang
kahimtang. Kada gabii, mag-away mi, hilak siya, ug usahay di na
gyud ko patugon. Hangtod sa giingnan ko niya nga dili na niya
kaya. Mao nga nasuko ko sa akong kaugalingon ug nakadesisyon
nga hunongon ang sabong para dili mawala akong pamilya.[I
didn’t realize that my addiction to cockfighting would seriously
affect our relationship. I kept going to the cockpit and ended up
neglecting my responsibilities at home. My wife would always tell
me that it seemed like I no longer cared about our situation. Every
night, we argued and she cried, and sometimes she wouldn’t even
let me sleep inside. Until one day, she told me she couldn’t take it
anymore. That’s when I got mad at myself and decided to stop
cockfighting because I didn’t want to lose my family.]

Participant 1 said this;

Lisod kaayo kung mapildi ka kay grabe ang kasaba sa

asawa. Ingnon gyud ka niya nga mas maayo pa unta gigasto nimo
diri sa balay og sa pag-eskwela sa imong anak kaysa sa sabong.
Usahay, maski makadaog ko, mag-inom ra gihapon ko kauban sa
akong mga barkada, mao nga mangasaba gyud si misis. Bisan pa
man og naay kinahanglanon sa balay, dili ko makatabang kay
nahurot na tanan sa pustahay og nagkadaghan na ang utang. [It’s
really hard when you lose because my wife scolds me badly. She
would tell me that it would’ve been better if I spent the money at
home or for our child’s education instead of on cockfighting.
Sometimes, even when I win, I still end up drinking with my
 friends, which makes my wife even more upset. Even if there were
needs at home, I could not provide anything because all our money
was spent on betting, and our debts kept piling up.]

Participant 4 said this;

Dapat makadaog gyud ko kay kung mapildi ko, pangasaban

man ko ni ante nimo. Mao na kada adto nako sa sabong,
paningkamotan gyud nako nga makadaog. Pero kung mapildi gani
ko, dili na lang ko mouli sa amo kay kabalo na ko nga pangasaban
na pud ko niya taman sa taman gyud. Mao nga magpabilin na lang
ko sa akong barkada nga kauban pud nako sa sabong. [I really
need to win because if I lose, your aunt (my wife) will scold me.
That’s why every time I go to the cockpit, I do my best to win. But
if I lose, I don’t go home anymore because I already know she’ll
scold me endlessly. So I just stay with my friends, who are also
into cockfighting.]

Participant 5 said this;

Sa una, sige ko'g adto sa sabungan, abi nako malingaw ra

ko, pero kadugayan, pirmi na mi gaaway tungod aning sabong,
mag sagi mana yawyaw si ante nimo sa akon. Tas akoang
dinaogan kis a kay makadto ra sa inom. Kada uli nako sa balay,
kasab-an ko kay wala koy ikahatag nga kwarta para sa mga gasto
sa balay palit bugas og sud an, labi na sa mga bata. Usahay,
maghilom ra siya, pero kabalo ko nga nasakitan siya ug kapoy na
kaayo siya sa akong batasan.[Before, I would always go to the
cockpit because I thought it was just for fun. But as time went on,
we constantly argued because of cockfighting. My wife kept
nagging me about it. Sometimes, even when I won, I would just
spend the money on drinking. Every time I came home, she would
scold me because I had nothing to contribute for the household
expenses, like buying rice and food, especially for the kids.
Sometimes she would stay quiet, but I knew she was hurt and
already tired of my behavior.]

In some cases, the tension and conflict arising from gambling behaviors serve as a

catalyst for individuals to recognize the detrimental impact of their actions on their
families, motivating them to seek change. For instance, a study exploring the coping

strategies of partners of pathological gamblers found that the partners' responses to

gambling behaviors could influence the gamblers' actions, sometimes leading to a

reduction in gambling activities (Côté et al., 2019). Additionally, the emotional distress

experienced by spouses, including feelings of anger, depression, and anxiety, can further

exacerbate relationship dysfunction. This dysfunction often leads to a cyclical pattern

where increased marital conflict contributes to heightened gambling behaviors, which in

turn lead to more conflict (Suomi et al., 2013).

Financial Crisis due to Gambling

The financial crisis is one of the major sub-factors that greatly contributed to and

motivated gamblers to quit gambling in cockpits. Participants revealed that excessive

gambling led to severe financial instability, pushing them into debt, loss of savings, and

even bankruptcy. The inability to meet basic needs and provide for their families became

a wake-up call for them to stop gambling. This is evident in the responses of Participant

number 2, Participant number 6, and Participant number 7, who admitted that they

reached a point where they had no money left to bet and were forced to borrow or sell

their belongings just to continue gambling. Some even mentioned that their financial

situation worsened, so they struggled to provide food and necessities for their families.

Participant 2 said this;

Lisod kaayo mangita og kwarta para ipadayon ang imong

sugal... ang kwarta maoy pinakaimportante kung magsugal ka. Sa
sige nakong sabong, wala ko kabantay nga nahurot na diay ang
among ginagmay'ng negosyo kay pirmi nako gamiton ang kuwarta
 para pusta. Hangtod sa napugos ko baligya sa among motor para
lang makabayad sa utang. Sukad ato, nagsabot na mi sa akong
asawa nga undangan na gyud ang sabong kay basin ug maprenda
pa gyud ang among balay kung magpadayon ko. [It’s really hard to
find money just to continue gambling… money is the most
important thing when you gamble. I didn’t realize that because of
my constant cockfighting, our small business was already drained
since I kept using the money for betting. Eventually, I was forced
to sell our motorcycle just to pay off my debts. After that, my wife
and I agreed that I really had to stop gambling, because if I
continued, we might even lose our house.]

Participant 6 said this,

Wala na gyud koy ipusta tungod sa problema sa kwarta.

Nagkadaghan ang utang hangtud sa nagkadako ang kasubo. Wala
nako damha nga mahurot gyud ang among kwarta tungod sa
sabong. Kada pusta nako, nagtuo ko nga makabawi ra ko, pero
mas nisamot ang kapildihan. Hangtod sa nahurot na among
gipang-save nga kwarta, ug napugos ko panghulam sa mga
silingan ug paryente. Wala na koy ika-pakaon sa akong mga anak.
[I didn’t realize that our savings would be completely drained
because of cockfighting. Every time I placed a bet, I thought I
could recover my losses, but things only got worse. Eventually, all
the money we had saved was gone, and I was forced to borrow
from neighbors and relatives. I didn’t even have anything left to
feed my children.]

Particioant 7 said this;

Permi ko mapildi sa sabong. Nakaabot ko sa punto nga

bisan ang kwarta para sa bugas ug gatas sa akong anak, napusta
na nako. Wala na koy mahimo kung dili mangutang. Niabot na
gyud ang panahon nga kinahanglan nakong hunahunaon ang pag
abang sa akong yuta. Maglisod na gyud mi sa adlaw-adlaw. Mao
nga nakadesisyon ko nga hunongon ang sabong kay nakita nako
nga akong pamilya ang nag-antos sa akong bisyo. [I always lost in
cockfighting. It reached a point where even the money meant for
rice and milk for my child was gambled away. I had no choice but
to borrow money. There came a time when I even had to consider
leasing out my land. We were really struggling every day. That’s
 why I decided to stop cockfighting because I saw that my family
was the one suffering from my vice.]

Research indicates that problem gamblers frequently experience a "spiral of

money," where continuous gambling leads to escalating financial losses. This cycle often

involves taking new loans to pay off previous debts, resulting in complex financial

problems that are concealed from family and friends. Despite the mounting debts,

gamblers persist in their activities, driven by the belief that a significant win will resolve

their financial issues. This phenomenon, known as "chasing losses," is characterized by

increased persistence and elevated monetary risk in an effort to recoup lost money

(Heiskanen, 2017).

The financial consequences of problem gambling are extensive, including overdue

bills, maxed-out credit cards, denial of credit, inability to provide for basic needs,

reliance on borrowing, high-risk investing, liquidation of assets, frequent payday loans,

property repossession, and home foreclosure. These financial stressors not only affect the

gambler but also place a significant burden on their families, often leading to strained

relationships and emotional distress (Financial Consequences-Nevada Council on

Problem Gambling, 2014).

Neglected Parental Obligations

Neglecting parental obligations is one of the major sub-factors that greatly

contributed to and motivated gamblers to quit gambling in cockpits. Participants revealed

that their gambling addiction took time, attention, and financial resources away from their

children, leading to feelings of guilt and regret. They realized that instead of fulfilling
their responsibilities as parents, they were prioritizing their gambling habits, which

negatively affected their families. This is evident in the responses of Participant number

1, Participant number 2, and Participant number 7, who admitted that their children

suffered because of their gambling. Some participants mentioned that they failed to

provide for their children’s education, daily needs, and medical expenses due to excessive

betting on cockfighting. Others expressed deep remorse upon realizing that they spent

more effort caring for their fighting roosters than their children.

Participant 1 said this;

Sa una, mas giuna pa nako ang pag-atiman sa akong mga

manok kaysa sa akong mga anak. Kung masakit ang manok,
kinahanglan dayon nimo hatagan og tambal ug vitamins. Kung
magsakit ang bata, limpyoha lang nimo ang sipon sa ilong. Maong
kada buntag, didto dayon ko malakaw sa likod balay mag-atiman
sa manok, unya malimtan na nako ipakaon ug andaman og
eskwela akong mga bata. [Before, I prioritized taking care of my
roosters over my own children. If a rooster got sick, I would
immediately give it medicine and vitamins. But if my child got
sick, I would just wipe their runny nose. Every morning, I would
head straight to the backyard to tend to my roosters, and I would
forget to feed my children or prepare them for school.]

Participant 2 said this;

Nakaabot ko sa punto nga ang kwarta para sa balaydan sa

akong anak, napusta na nako. Pagka-graduation sa eskwela, wala
koy ika-contribute para sa toga ug pictorial. Naghilak akong anak
kay ingon siya, di ko man lang makahatag bisan gamay para sa
iyang graduation. Akong anak kay grade 12 pa siya ani, wala ko
mahatag niya kay tungod ang kwarta sagi nako taya sa sabong. [I
reached a point where even the money meant for my child’s school
fees was gambled away. During their graduation, I couldn’t
contribute anything for their toga and pictorial. My child cried and
said I couldn’t even give a small amount for their graduation. At
 that time, my child was just in Grade 12, and I couldn’t provide
anything because I kept using our money to bet on cockfights. That
was what finally opened my eyes.]

Participant 7 said this;

Sa sige nako’g adto sa sabungan, wala na gyud koy

panahon para sa akong mga anak. Dili na ko kahibalo sa ilang
mga problema sa eskwela kay wala na koy panahon mangumusta
kung unsa ilang panginahanglan. Ang ilang mga report card, dili
na nako tan-awon; pirmi na lang ilang mama ang maglakaw sa
eskwelahan para mo-follow up. Tungod pud sa sabong, ang akong
kwarta igo ra ikapalit og feeds para sa mga manok aron naa silay
pagkaon. Apan, para sa bugas, wala na koy ikapalit; si misis na
lang ang manghulam sa among silingan aron naa mi makaon sa
gabii. [Because I kept going to the cockpit, I no longer had time for
my children. I was no longer aware of their problems in school
because I didn’t have time to check on what they needed. I didn’t
even look at their report cards anymore; it was always their mother
who went to school for follow-ups. Because of cockfighting, all my
money was only enough to buy feeds for the roosters so they would
have food. But for rice, I had nothing left to buy it with. My wife
had to borrow from our neighbors so we could have something to
eat at night.]

Neglecting parental duties because of gambling addiction has a serious impact on

both the gambler and their children. It brings deep emotional pain and slows down a

child’s healthy growth and development. Children living in this kind of home often feel

forgotten, as parents put gambling first and fail to provide for their basic needs and

emotional support (How Harmful Gambling Impacts Children, 2024). These parents are

often stressed, anxious, and frustrated, which makes it hard for them to show love, care,

and attention to their children. Many become so focused on gambling that they forget

their most important role—being a parent. As a result, children may feel unloved,

unwanted, or even invisible.

 In these homes, neglect is common. Some children miss school because no one is

there to guide or support them. Others go hungry because the money is spent on gambling

instead of food. The home becomes a place full of stress and fear, where children may

suffer from emotional pain or even physical abuse. Gambling doesn’t just empty wallets

—it breaks families and damages children’s hearts. One of the biggest problems is

financial instability. Money meant for food, clothes, and education is often used for

gambling. This leaves families without enough for their daily needs. Children in this

situation feel unsafe and worried about what will happen to them (Seodev, 2024).

Disability

Disability is one of the significant factors that motivated gamblers to quit

gambling in cockpits. Participants who suffered from physical disabilities or health issues

found it increasingly difficult to continue gambling, as they were unable to travel to

cockfighting arenas or sustain the financial demands of their condition alongside their

gambling habits. This is evident in the responses of Participant number 3, Participant

number 6, and Participant number 4, who shared that their disability made them reassess

their priorities. Some participants could no longer work due to their health conditions,

while others struggled to afford medical expenses because most of their money had been

lost to gambling.

Participant 3 said;

Tungod sa akong sakit sa kasingkasing, og sa akoang

physical disability, dili na ko kaapas sa gasto sa tambal ug
sabong. Nakarealize ko nga kinahanglan ang kwarta para sa
akong tambal kaysa sugal. Ang kwarta dili ipusta sa sabong kundi
 gamiton sa panginahanglan sa balay og tambal. Mao nga
mihunong na ko ug sabong kay akong lawas nanginahanglan ug
pagtagad kag tungod kay disabled na pud ako. [Because of my
heart condition and physical disability, I can no longer keep up
with the expenses for both my medication and gambling. I realized
that I need the money more for my medicine than for gambling.
The money shouldn’t be used for betting on cockfights but for our
household needs and my treatment. That’s why I stopped gambling
on cockfights because my body needs care and attention, and also
because I am now disabled.]

Participant 6 mentioned that;

Wala na koy ginabuhat ug dili na pud ko makatrabaho

tungod sa akong pisikal nga kapansanan. Magpahuway na lang ko
diri sa among duyan hangtod sa hapon. Tungod ani, nakadesisyon
ko nga mohunong sa sabong kay dili na nako kaya mulakaw pa
padulong sa arena o sabungan, kay layo kaayo gikan diri sa
among lugar. Sauna, kaya pa nako maglakaw-lakaw kung asa
naay sabong, pero sukad nga nagka-deperensya akong tiil,
niundang gyud ko. Dugang pa, pagkamatay sa akong asawa, wala
na koy kwarta. [I don't have anything to do anymore, and I can no
longer work because of my physical disability. I just rest here in
our hammock until the afternoon. Because of this, I decided to stop
cockfighting since I can no longer walk all the way to the arena or
cockpit, which is very far from our place. Before, I could still walk
around wherever there was a cockfight, but ever since my leg was
injured, I completely stopped. In addition, after my wife passed
away, I had no more money.]

Participant 4 stated that;

Pagkahuman sa aksidente naputolan ko og isa ka tiil nga

na-amputate ini, lisod na kaayo para nako ang mulakaw ug
muadto sa sabungan. Wala na ko’y kusog pareho sauna, mao nga
nakahunong na gyud ko sa sabong. Mas gipili na nako nga
magpahulay ug mag-atiman sa akong lawas. Diri nalang ko sa
amoa mag alaga og manok, naa ko manok diri dalawa,
ginaalagaan nalang nako kay wala may lingaw diria. [After the
accident, I lost one of my legs, and it became very difficult for me
to walk and go to the cockpit. I no longer have the strength I used
 to have, so I finally stopped gambling on cockfighting. I chose to
rest and take care of my health instead. Now, I just stay at home
and take care of two roosters. I look after them because I have
nothing else to do here.]

Studies indicate that individuals with disabilities often face financial instability

due to medical expenses and loss of employment. Combining this with gambling

addiction exacerbates financial distress, pushing them to quit (National Council on

Problem Gambling, 2024). Physical disabilities and chronic illnesses limit mobility,

making it difficult for individuals to access gambling venues, leading to a natural decline

in gambling behavior (Journal of Gambling Studies, 2025).

According to Hing et al. (2014), many gamblers who experience severe health

problems, such as chronic illnesses or disabilities, are forced to reconsider their priorities,

often shifting focus from gambling to health care and family responsibilities. Physical

limitations and financial strain due to medical expenses frequently push individuals to

stop gambling. For people dealing with disabilities, the physical effort required to

participate in gambling activities—such as traveling to cockfighting arenas—becomes

too demanding, especially in rural areas where access is limited. Additionally, as

financial resources are often redirected toward medical treatments and basic household

needs, the appeal and feasibility of gambling diminish. These findings align with the

experiences of the participants in this study, who expressed that their disabilities not only

limited their mobility but also made them reflect on the importance of prioritizing their

health and family over gambling (Suomi et al., 2013).

External Warning and Advice

External warnings and advice from family, friends, and community members

significantly motivated gamblers to quit. Many participants shared that they were

constantly reminded, warned, or even criticized about their gambling habits, making them

reflect on the consequences of their actions. This is evident in the responses of Participant

number 1 and Participant number 2, who stated that hearing concerned advice from loved

ones helped them realize the negative impact of gambling on their lives.

Participant 1 shared that;

Kanunay nilang isulti nako nga wala koy makuha nga

maayo sa sugal. Ubuson lang sa sugal ang kwarta, wala na ka
kabalo kung unsa ba gyud ang unahon nimo ang pamilya ba o
sabong kay nalulong naman ka sa bisyo. Makahunahuna ko dati
nga tama diay sila. Sa kadugay nako nagasugod og sabong, wala
man gyud koy nakuha nga maayo, nagsige lang ko’g pildi, hangtod
napabayaan nako akong pamilya. Nakarealize ko nga ang akong
bisyo maoy nakapadugang sa ilang kalisod. Tungod sa ilang
kanunay nga pahimangno ug hangyo, nakadesisyon gyud ko nga
undangon ang sabong ug unahon na ang akong pamilya. [They
would always tell me that I would gain nothing good from
gambling. Gambling would only drain my money, and I’d end up
not knowing what to prioritize my family or cockfighting because I
had already become addicted to the vice. I later realized they were
right. After being involved in cockfighting for so long, I never
really gained anything good; I kept losing, and eventually, I
neglected my family. I realized that my addiction had only added
to their hardships. Because of their constant reminders and pleas, I
finally decided to quit cockfighting and put my family first.]

Parrticipant 2 said that;

Usahay, ilang isulti nga ang sabong nagdugang ra kini og

problema sa amo ug dili nako mabayran ang akong mga utang.
Hangtud sa giingnan ko sa akong anak, 'Pa, kapoy na kaayo,
 unsaon man nato ni? Wala nami pang-kaon, pang balon og
pangbayad sa utang, pirme na lang mi maghulam og mangutang
na daghan nata utang. Giingnan ko niya nga undang na pa, mao
tong nakaisip ko dati na iundang na jud ang sabong para sa
akoang pamilya. [Sometimes, they would tell me that cockfighting
only added to our problems and that I could no longer pay off my
debts. Until one day, my child told me, “Pa, we’re so tired already.
What are we going to do? We don’t have food to eat, no money for
school allowance, and we can’t pay our debts. We’re always
borrowing money, and we already owe so much.” My child told me
to stop, and that made me realize that I really needed to quit
cockfighting for the sake of my family.]

The severe stigma is attached to those people with gambling addictions and can

have several negative effects that go beyond that individual. Public stigma seems to stem

from an idea of the typical “problem gambler” as reckless, selfish, self-centered, and

irresponsible (Horch & Hodgins, 2013). Moreover, they emphasized that the stigma

attached to gambling addiction often pressures individuals to reconsider their behavior, as

they fear losing the respect and trust of their family and community. These findings

demonstrate how external warnings and advice, combined with social stigma, can be

powerful motivators for behavioral change among gamblers. According to Kim et al.

(2016), interventions from family members, such as persistent advice, emotional appeals,

and even confrontations, can lead gamblers to reflect on their actions and the harm they

are causing. Family members often serve as the first line of defense, raising awareness of

the financial and emotional consequences of gambling.

Conscious Decision

A conscious decision to quit gambling was another key factor in participants

overcoming their cockfighting addiction. Unlike those who were forced to quit due to
external circumstances, some participants deliberately chose to stop gambling after

realizing its negative impact on their lives. This is evident in the responses of Participant

Number 3, Participant Number 5, Participant number 6 and Participant Number 8, who

shared that they committed to quit without waiting for something bad to happen.

Participant 3 shared that;

Ako ra jud ang nakahukom na mag undang na og sabong,

dati nag undang ko tungod pud layo na ang sabongan kay dati naa
ra man diri sa barangay. Unya tigulang na man gud ko dili na
nako kaya pa maglakaw sa layo kong asa ang sabong. Niundang
na jud ko para pud sa akoang sarili og kinahanglan nako
magpahulay. [It was really my own decision to quit cockfighting.
Before, I stopped because the cockpit was already far away, unlike
before when it was just here in our barangay. Now that I’m old, I
can’t handle walking long distances just to watch or join
cockfights. I finally decided to quit for myself too, because I need
to rest.]

Participant 5 mentioned that;

Akong kaugalingon lang gyud ang nagdesisyon nga

mohawa o mag-undang sa bisyo, kay babae ko ug gusto ko nga
respetado ko sa among komunidad. Dugang pa, nagkasakit ang
akong mama, ug didto ko nakarealize nga kinahanglan nakong
undangon ang bisyo aron matutukan nako siya ug matabangan sa
iyang panginahanglan. [It was really my own decision to quit my
vice because I am a woman, and I want to be respected in our
community. Also, when my mother got sick, I realized that I
needed to stop gambling so I could focus on taking care of her and
helping with her needs.]

Participant 6 shared that;

Ako ra pud ang nakahukom nga mag-undang sa sabong.

Tungod pud kay naa naman koy tulo ka anak nga nag-eskwela sa
kolehiyo. Asa na pud ko manguha og kwarta para sa gastos sa
mga estudyante, tulo pa gyud sila ug dako-dako na ang gasto. Mao
 to, nakadesisyon ko sa akong sarili nga mag-undang, unahon sa
nako ang panginahanglan sa akong mga anak kaysa sa akong
bisyo. [I also made the decision to stop gambling in cockfighting.
It's because I already have three children studying in college.
Should I still continue gambling? It's better to stop now because I
might get addicted to cockfighting again, and where would I get
the money for my children’s school expenses? There are three of
them, and the expenses are getting bigger. That’s why I decided on
my own to quit gambling and prioritize the needs of my children
over my vice.]

Participant 8 said that;

Ako ra gihapon ang nakahukom sa pag-undang sa sugal.

Ako ra gyud ang nakadesisyon nga dili na mobalik. Mas gipili
nako nga magpokus sa akong pamilya ug sa akong gamay nga
negosyo, kay didto, makita gyud nako nga naa koy matipon ug
hinay-hinay nga mutubo. Sa sugal? Wala gyud koy nakuha kundi
sakit sa ulo, problema, ug kalisod. Nakadesisyon gyud ko nga
maundang kay nakita nako nga pansamantala ra ang kalipay nga
dala sa sabong o bisan unsang klase sa sugal, pero ang kadaot ug
kasakit nga mahitabo sa pamilya, dugay mawala. [It was still my
decision to stop gambling. I was the one who truly decided not to
go back to it. I chose to focus on my family and on our small
business because there, I can really see that I am able to save and
slowly grow what we have. With gambling? I got nothing but
headaches, problems, and hardship. I firmly decided to quit
because I realized that the happiness gambling brings is only
temporary, but the damage and pain it causes to the family last for
a long time.]

The processes utilized by recovered problem gamblers reveals that cognitive-

experiential strategies, such as self-reevaluation and self-liberation, are frequently

employed in overcoming gambling problems. These findings underscore the importance

of self-awareness and personal decision-making in the recovery process (Hodgin, 2011).

Individuals who successfully quit gambling often engaged in self-reflection, leading them
to recognize the negative consequences of their behavior and to take deliberate steps

toward change. The study highlights that personal motivation and internal resolve were

stronger predictors of recovery than external pressures or interventions alone (Hing et al.,

2020).

Challenges of Retired Gamblers Encountered While Transitioning to Quitting

Retired gamblers experienced significant challenges while trying to quit

gambling. Emotionally, the highs of winning and the lows of losing created a cycle of

excitement and frustration, making it difficult to stop. Many faced emotional impacts

such as regret, guilt, and anxiety during the transition. Financial crises were also

common, as years of gambling had led to debts and desperation, forcing some to consider

gambling again as a quick solution. They also faced a dilemma, torn between their desire

to quit and the persistent urge to gamble. Boredom and lack of alternative activities made

the transition harder, as gambling had become part of their routine and daily life. Without

other interests or distractions, they struggled to fill their time meaningfully. Lastly,

temptations due to external influences, such as peer pressure from friends and family, and

the social acceptance of gambling in their community, made quitting even more

challenging. The environment around them often encouraged relapse rather than

recovery.

Difficulty to quit due to Winning

 The emotional effect of winning made it hard for some gamblers to quit

cockfighting. Many participants shared that the thrill and temporary happiness they felt

whenever they won kept them going back. They described the extreme excitement from

winning as something that made them forget about their losses, even if they were already

struggling. This cycle of winning and losing became an emotional rollercoaster that

affected their thinking and made it harder for them to stop gambling. This is evident in

the responses of Participant number 2, Participant number 5, and Participant number 7,

who shared that the emotional stress of constant losses and the fleeting joy of winning

made them reconsider gambling.

Participant 2 mentioned that;

Kung makadaog ka sa dula, mura'g nakadaog ka og lotto

kag nakadaog ka og milyon bisan gamay ra imong pusta. Maski
sige kog pildi, basta makadaug gani ko, murag mabawi tanan
kapildihan. Malipay ko ug makalimot ko sa problema sa balay ug
sa kwarta. Mao nang lisod jud kaayo undangan kay murag naa koy
paglaum pirmi. [When you win in the game, it feels like you’ve
won the lottery or won millions, even if you only placed a small
bet. Even though I often lose, whenever I win, it feels like I recover
all my losses. I feel happy and forget about my problems at home
and with money. That’s why it’s really hard to quit because it
always feels like there’s hope.]

Participant 5 said that;

Pag modaog ka, mura’g mawala tanan nimong problema.

Ang kalipay dili mapugngan, mura’g nakalimot ka nga gamay ra
diay imong gitaya. Sa dihang modaug ko, mura’g masudlan kog
kalipay nga dili nako mabati kung wala ko sa sabong. Murag adik
ba, sige’g pangita sa sunod nga kadaogan. Mao nga bisan
kahibalo ko nga nakagasto nako ug dako, sige gihapon ko. [When
you win, it feels like all your problems disappear. The happiness is
overwhelming, and you forget that you only bet a small amount.
 Every time I win, it fills me with a kind of joy that I don’t feel
when I’m not at the cockpit. It’s like being addicted—you keep
looking for the next win. That’s why, even if I know I’ve already
spent a lot, I still keep going.]

Participant 7 shared that;

Pag makadaug ka, mura gyud kag mulupad sa kalipay.

Makaingon ka nga, 'Naay kwarta na pud ni, hay.' Usahay
makadaog ko ug dako, mao nga magtuo ko nga suwerte ko anang
panahona. Bisan nagkaburot na akong utang, sige lang gihapon ko
kay naa koy paglaum nga makabawi. Nalimtan na nako ang
importante amo ang pamilya ug ang among kalisod. [When you
win, it feels like you’re flying with happiness. You tell yourself,
‘There’s money again, finally.’ Sometimes I win big, and that
makes me believe I’m lucky during those times. Even though my
debts keep piling up, I still continue because I always have hope
that I can recover what I’ve lost. I ended up forgetting what’s really
important—my family and the hardships we’re going through.]

Participant 4 shared that;

Sa matag higayon nga modaog ko, mura kog makabati og

paglaum nga makabawi ko sa tanang pilde nako. Bisan og daghan
na kaayong nawala sa akoa, basta makadaog ko og usa ka dako,
murag magtuo gihapon ko nga swerte ko. Lisod kaayo undangan
kay maghunahuna ko nga basin sa sunod nga dula, makadaog
napud ko og dako. Tungod anang pagbati, magpadayon ko'g dula,
nagtuo nga pirmi ko makadaog. Pero sa tinuod lang, usa ra diay to
ka siklo—daog karon, pildi na pud ugma. Bisan pa man, lisod
gihapon hunong kay magpabilin sa akong hunahuna katong mga
daog, nga mura'g nagsulti nga pwede pa nako mausab ang tanan.
[Every time I win, it gives me hope that I can win again and
recover all my losses. Even if I’ve already lost so much, that one
big win makes me feel like I’m still lucky. It’s hard to walk away
when you think the next fight could be your chance to win big
again. That excitement pushes me to keep playing, believing that I
can keep winning. But in the end, I realized it’s just a cycle—I win
today, but tomorrow, I lose even more. Still, it was hard to stop
because I kept holding on to those few wins, thinking they were
signs that I could turn things around.]
 According to Burger et al. (2020), the thrill of winning, even a small prize, can

evoke positive emotions that extend beyond the monetary value of the prize itself. This

suggests that regardless of the prize’s size, winning holds an intrinsic appeal, potentially

stemming from a sense of accomplishment or luck. This non-monetary utility adds to the

overall enjoyment of participating in lotteries, highlighting the psychological factors at

play. Celebrating small wins, those seemingly insignificant milestones are a powerful

catalyst in pursuing larger goals. We reinforce a positive reward and motivation feedback

loop by acknowledging and celebrating these small victories. Celebrating, whether

through a small treat, a moment of self-reflection, or a shared moment of joy, triggers a

release of dopamine, the neurochemical associated with pleasure and reward. This

positive reinforcement strengthens the association between effort and satisfaction,

making us more likely to strive for remarkable achievements (Xiao, 2021).

High Probability of Loss

Another sub-theme identified from the participants' responses regarding the

challenges they encountered while transitioning to quitting is the high probability of loss.

This realization emerged as a common experience among the participants throughout

their involvement in cockfighting. They frequently faced a high risk of losing their bets,

making gambling an unpredictable and stressful activity. Despite their hope for winning,

many participants often experienced repeated losses, which severely drained their

finances and caused emotional distress. This is evident in the responses of Participant
number 3, Participant number 5, and Participant number 7, who admitted that their

gambling losses forced them into debt, financial instability, and even poverty.

Participant 3 mentioned that;

Bihira ra magdaog didto, ug mas daghan pa akong

napilde nga kwarta kaysa nadaug, mao nga kalas… kalas gyud.
Kada duwa, magsalig ko nga basin karon makadaog na, pero
permi gihapon pildi. Sa kadugayan, nasabtan nako nga mas dako
gyud ang posibilidad nga mapilde kaysa modaog. [It is rare to win
there, and I lost more money than I ever won, so it was really a
waste… a total waste. Every game, I hoped I would finally win,
but I kept losing. In the long run, I realized there’s a much higher
chance of losing than winning.]

Participant 5 shared that;

Sa kadugay nakong nagsabong, kasagaran gyud nga

resulta kay pildi. Bisan og dako kag pusta, wa gihapon
kasiguruhan nga makadaog. Sa dugay na panahon, nahurot
akong kwarta ug nalubong ko sa utang. Talagsa ra ka makadaog,
depende pa sa panahon ug sa manok. Kalas gyud kaayo sa
kwarta, kay usahay mas dako pa ang gasto sa pag-atiman sa
manok kaysa sa ginansya sa kadaogan. Ug kung makadaog man
gani, igo ra pud nga ipusta balik. [I’ve been involved in
cockfighting for a long time, and most of the time, the result is a
loss. Even if you place big bets, there’s still no guarantee that
you’ll win. Over time, I lost all my money and ended up buried in
debt. Winning is rare, and it still depends on the timing and the
rooster. It’s really a waste of money because sometimes the cost
of taking care of the rooster is even higher than the winnings. And
even if you win, it usually just goes back to another bet.]

Participant 7 shared that;

Sa sige nako taya sa sabong, naubos akoang savings,

namaligya kog yuta nako para lang sa sabong kay tungod addict
kaayo ko dati, isa ka challenge ini sa kung diin dapat naa kay
dako na kwarta pero bisag dako imohang kwarta kong ang
panabong is talagsa madaog talagsa dili, pildi jud ka og maubos
pa imohang kwarta maapil imong mga yuta, hayop og iban pa na
pwede ibaligya. [Because I kept betting on cockfighting, I ended
up losing all my savings. I was even forced to sell my land just to
support my addiction to it. This was one of the biggest challenges
—because you need to have a lot of money to keep playing, but
 even if you have plenty, there’s no guarantee you’ll win. If your
rooster only wins occasionally, you’re bound to lose. In the end, I
lost all my money, and I even had to sell my land, livestock, and
anything else I could just to keep placing bets.]

Participant 1 mentioned that;

Wala na koy natigum nga kwarta. Bihira ra gyud ko

makadaog sa sugal, ug daghan pa kaayong gasto sa pag-maintain
sa tanan—bitamina, pagkaon sa manok, ug uban pa. Unya kung
makadaog man gani, ang ginansya usahay magasto ra sa mga
amigo, dili sa pamilya. Usahay, kung mapildi, maapil pa og kuha
ang savings nga para unta sa panginahanglan sa pamilya. Dako
na kaayo ang nawala nga kwarta, ug naprenda na gani ang
among basakan. Mao na, ang sabong o sugal, dili untatan kung
naa pa koy kwarta nga igastos. [I have no savings left. I rarely
win in gambling, and there are so many expenses just to maintain
everything—the vitamins, the food for the rooster, and other costs.
And when I do win, the earnings sometimes get spent on friends
instead of my family. Sometimes, when I lose, I even end up using
the savings that are supposed to be for my family’s needs. I’ve
already lost a lot of money, and we even pawned our rice field.
That’s why with cockfighting or gambling, it should have stopped
long ago—but I kept going because I still had money to spend.]

Gambling, characterized by its inherent uncertainty, can elicit a complex interplay

of emotions that significantly influence player behavior. Winning can induce a state of

euphoria, fostering feelings of confidence and satisfaction. These positive emotions can

act as powerful motivators, encouraging continued participation and potentially leading

to increased risk-taking. Conversely, losing can evoke a range of negative emotions,

including frustration, anger, shame, and even depression. These negative emotions can, in

turn, motivate players to attempt to recoup their losses, potentially leading to impulsive

and risky decisions. This cyclical pattern, driven by both positive and negative

reinforcement, underscores the potential for gambling to become addictive, trapping

individuals in a cycle of escalating risk and emotional distress (Realm, 2023). The
acquisition of a substantial sum of money through gambling can have a profound impact

on an individual’s life. The newfound financial security provides stability and fulfills

essential needs and personal aspirations. Individuals may utilize these winnings to

alleviate debt burdens, provide financial assistance to family members, or embark on

long-desired travel experiences. Furthermore, the experience of winning a significant

amount can contribute to a heightened sense of self-esteem, fostering feelings of

confidence and accomplishment. Conversely, losing a substantial sum can lead to a

decline in self-worth and a sense of inadequacy. Individuals may question their decision-

making abilities or perceive themselves as lacking competence in gambling, potentially

affecting their self-esteem. Repeated losses can also contribute to feelings of

hopelessness and depression, creating a cycle of negative emotions that can negatively

impact mental well-being (Walter & Walter, 2024).

Dilemma

Many gamblers experience a painful dilemma. They feel torn between continuing

their gambling and quitting for the sake of their family, finances, and personal well-

being. On one hand, gambling gives them a sense of excitement, the hope of winning big,

and an escape from their problems. On the other hand, they are faced with the harsh

reality of what gambling has done to their lives—broken family relationships, financial

problems, and damage to their health and well-being.

This inner conflict creates a constant struggle. Many gamblers end up trapped in a

cycle of self-doubt and relapse. Even when they want to stop, the strong urge to gamble

pulls them back in. They are caught between what they know is right—quitting—and the
addiction that keeps them coming back. This is evident in the responses of Participant

number 2, Participant number 4, Participant number 6, Participant 7 and Participant 5,

who struggled with the decision of whether to keep gambling or quit entirely. Participants

unanimously agreed that overcoming this internal struggle was one of the hardest parts of

quitting. They eventually realized that quitting was the only way to regain control of their

lives.

Participant 2 mentioned that;

Sa matag higayon nga maghunahuna ko nga undangan na,

mahinumduman gihapon nako tong mga panahona nga nakadaog
ko ug dako. Kanang paglaum nga makadaog na pud, maoy
magpabalik-balik nako. Pero sa matag kapildihan nako, makita
nako kung giunsa pagsuffer sa akong pamilya tungod sa akong
bisyo. Sakit kaayo ang pagpili tali sa akong addiction ug sa akong
pamilya, pero nasayod ko nga kinahanglan na gyud nako
undangan. [Every time I thought about quitting, I would remember
the times I won big. That hope always pulled me back in, thinking
maybe I could win again and recover everything I lost. But every
time I lost, I could see how my family was suffering because of
me. It was painful to choose between my addiction and my family,
but I knew I had to stop.]

Participant 4 shared that;

Nalibog gid ko. Sa isa ka bahin, gusto ko gihapon

magpadayon pusta kay nagapati ko nga basi makadaog pa ko.
Pero sa isa ka bahin, nakita ko nga nagadamo na ang akon utang
kag indi ko na mabuligan ang kinahanglanon sang akon mga
kabataan. Pirme ko ginapakigbatuan ang akon kaugalingon, pero
narealize ko nga kung indi ko mag-untat, indi lang kwarta ang
madula sa akon—basi pamilya ko pa. [I was torn. On one hand, I
wanted to keep betting because I believed I could still win. On the
other hand, I saw how my debts were piling up, and I could no
longer provide for my children’s needs. It was a constant battle
inside me, but I realized if I didn’t stop, I’d lose more than money
—I’d lose my family.]

Participant 6 stated that;

 Bisan kabalo ko nga ginaguba na sang sugal ang akon
kinabuhi, budlay gid mag-untat. Daw naadik na ko sa excitement
nga magdaog, pero sa sulod ko kabalo ko nga indi na gid insakto.
Ginpili ako sang asawa ko—mag-untat ko ukon bayaan niya ko.
Amo to ang punto nga nagbag-o ko. Ginpili ko nga mag-untat kay
indi ko gusto nga madula pa ang akon pamilya. [Even though I
knew that gambling was ruining my life, it was really hard to stop.
I felt addicted to the excitement of winning, but deep inside, I
knew it wasn’t right anymore. My wife gave me a choice—either I
stop or she would leave me. That was the turning point that made
me change. I chose to quit because I didn’t want to lose my
family.]

Participant 7 shared that;

Naay mga higayon nga nagsaad ko sa akong kaugalingon

nga dili na ko magsugal. Pero kada mulabay ko sa sabungan,
tintalon gihapon ko. Maghunahuna ko, ‘Basig karon modaog ko,
unya maayo na ang tanan.’ Pero sa sige nakog kapildi, nasabtan
nako nga dili gyud solusyon ang sugal—naguba na hinuon ko.
[There were times when I promised myself that I would stop
gambling. But every time I passed by the cockpit, I still got
tempted. I would think, ‘Maybe this time I’ll win, and everything
will be okay.’ But after losing over and over again, I realized that
gambling was not the solution—it was only destroying me.]

Participant 5 shared that;

Lisod kaayo undangan kay mura’g nahimo nang bahin sa

akong adlaw-adlaw nga buhat ang sugal. Naglisod ko sa pagpili
tali sa gusto nako nga mabawi ang akong napildi ug sa gusto nako
nga mahaw-as ko sa utang. Mohilak akong mga anak kada iprenda
nako among mga butang para lang sugalan. Mao to nga narealize
nako nga mas pili-on nako sila kaysa sugal. [It was very hard to
quit because gambling had become a part of my daily routine. I
struggled between wanting to win back what I had lost and wanting
to free myself from debt. My children would cry every time I
pawned our belongings just to have money for gambling. That’s
when I realized I had to choose them over gambling.]

One study highlighted that many gamblers persist in their behavior despite being

aware of the need to stop. The anticipation of recouping losses or achieving a significant

win often perpetuates the cycle of gambling, even when individuals recognize the
negative impact on their lives (Lindberg, 2025). It is clear that many individuals struggle

to stop gambling, even when they are aware of its harmful effects. They often continue

because they believe they can win back the money they have lost or hope for a big win

that will solve their problems. This mindset keeps them trapped in a cycle that becomes

harder to break over time. The adverse effects of gambling extend beyond the individual,

significantly impacting family dynamics. Gambling addiction can lead to emotional,

financial, and relational strain within families, resulting in a breakdown of trust and

stability (Right Choice Recovery Editorial Team, 2024).

Boredom and Lack of Alternative Activities

For some participants, gambling on cockfights became more than just an

occasional activity—it turned into a regular habit, initially driven by boredom and the

lack of alternative recreational options. In rural areas where livelihood is often limited to

farming or manual labor, and where entertainment opportunities are scarce, many

individuals find themselves with plenty of idle time, especially after work or during

weekends. Without accessible sports, hobbies, or community activities to occupy their

free time, gambling became their default pastime. As they attempted to transition away

from gambling, this lack of alternative activities emerged as a significant challenge.

Many participants described struggling to fill the void that gambling once occupied in

their daily lives. The cockfighting arena had previously served as a place where they

could socialize, escape the monotony of daily life, and experience excitement. Without it,

they were left with feelings of boredom, restlessness, and even isolation. What once
started as a way to pass the time had gradually turned into an addictive routine, and

removing it left a noticeable gap.

This challenge was evident in the responses of Participant number 1, Participant

number 3, Participant 4, Participant 5 and Participant number 6, who openly admitted that

they gambled simply because they had nothing else to do. Now, in their effort to quit,

they find themselves confronted by the same lack of meaningful and engaging

alternatives that led them to gamble in the first place. Their stories highlight the difficulty

of breaking free from gambling when there are few or no other options for recreation,

connection, or personal fulfillment in their communities.

Participant 1 shared that;

Wala gyud koy lingaw kada adlaw, mao nang magsige ko

ug adto sa sabungan. Kung wala kay buhaton sa balay, didto na
lang ka magtambay sa sabungan, hangtod maanad na ka sa
pustahanay. Pag-undang nako, lisod kay wala koy mabuhat.
Nabati ko og kasuya kung makadungog ko nga ang akong mga
amigo tua gihapon sa sabungan naglingaw-lingaw. [I really
didn’t have anything to do every day, that’s why I kept going to
the cockpit. If you don’t have anything to do at home, you’ll just
end up hanging out at the cockfighting arena, until you get used
to betting. When I stopped, it was difficult because I had nothing
to do. I felt envious whenever I heard that my friends were still at
the cockpit having fun.]

Participant 3 mentioned that;

Sa una, ang sabong mao ra gyud akong lingaw. Wala koy

trabaho ato nga time, wala pud koy laing kauban, mao to nga sa
sabungan ko pirmi makit-an. Paghunong nako, mura ko’g
nawalaan og lingaw, magsige ko’g huna-huna unsaon pagpuno
sa akong oras kay naanad ko sa saba ug kusog nga kasaba sa
sabungan. [Before, cockfighting was really my only source of
fun. I didn’t have a job at that time, and I didn’t have anyone else
to be with, so I was always found at the cockpit. When I stopped,
I felt like I lost my only enjoyment. I kept thinking about how to
fill my time because I had gotten used to the noise and loud
shouting at the cockfights.]
Participant 4 said that;

Mingaw kaayo sa amo lugar, labi na naa mi sa bukid

wala kaayo kalihokan. Ang sabong ra gyud among kalingawan,
mao nga mura’g lisod i-undang kay nahimo nang routine kada
semana. Sa pagsugod nako og hunong, kinahanglan gyud ko
mangita og lain nga kalihokan kay kung wala, mubalik ra
gihapon ko. [t’s very quiet in our place, especially since we live
in the mountains where there aren’t many activities.
Cockfighting was really our only form of entertainment, which
made it hard to stop because it had already become a weekly
routine. When I started to quit, I really had to look for another
activity because if I didn’t, I knew I would just end up going
back.]

Participant 5 stated that;

Gikan ko sa trabaho, human magkaon, wala na ko

mabuhat. Ang sabong maoy pinaka dali nga kalingawan kay
makalingaw ug makapahiluna sa akong hunahuna. Pero pag-
undang nako, akong gibati kay mura kog walay padulngan. Mao
to nga nangita ko og trabaho para lang dili na nako maisip ang
sabong. Subong naga gwardya ko sa Cotabato. [After work, and
after eating, I had nothing else to do. Cockfighting was the
easiest form of entertainment because it was fun and helped clear
my mind. But when I stopped, I felt like I had no direction.
That’s why I looked for a job, just so I wouldn’t think about
cockfighting anymore. Now, I’m working as a security guard in
Cotabato.]

Participant 6 mentioned that;

Naanad na gyud ko nga pirmi magtambay sa sabungan

kung wala koy trabaho. Basta maanad ka ug mao na imong
ginahimo sulod sa pila ka tuig, dili gyud sayon moundang, labi
na kung wala kay lain buhaton. Ang pirmi ra namo ginahimo
diri kay magsabong, mao nga ang sabungan ang pinakasayon
duolon. Sa dihang nihunong ko, naglisod gyud ko kay halos kada
adlaw, walay kapuslanan akong oras. Mao nangita ko iban
trabaho para malingaw, subong nag pokus ko sa akong tindahan
nagabaligya ko og mga ice cubes. [I got used to always hanging
out at the cockfighting arena whenever I didn’t have work. When
you get used to doing something for several years, it’s really not
easy to stop, especially when you have nothing else to do.
Cockfighting was the only thing we usually did here, so the
 cockpit was the easiest place to go to. When I stopped, I really
struggled because almost every day, my time felt wasted. That’s
why I looked for another job to keep myself busy. Now, I’m
focused on managing my small store, selling ice cubes.]

Similarly, research on gambling in rural South Australia highlights that limited

access to recreational activities can lead individuals to seek excitement and social

interaction through gambling. Furthermore, a study on self-management strategies for

problem gambling in the context of poverty and homelessness emphasizes the importance

of engaging in alternative activities to fill the void left by gambling. Participants reported

that keeping busy with various tasks helped redirect their focus and manage urges to

gamble. When people focus on different activities—whether it’s work, hobbies, or

helping in the community—it gives them something positive to do. Staying busy helps

take their minds off gambling and provides them with a sense of purpose (Gannon et al.,

2021).

Temptations Due to External Influence

One of the significant challenges participants encountered while transitioning to

quitting cockfighting was dealing with external influences. Peer pressure, family

expectations, and the widespread acceptance of cockfighting in their communities made it

difficult for them to withdraw completely. Despite their desire to stop gambling, the

constant invitations, encouragement from friends, and cultural normalization of

cockfighting pulled them back into the habit. This is reflected in the experiences of

Participant number 2, Participant number 3, and Participant number 8, who shared how

the people around them heavily influenced their decisions and made quitting a struggle.
Participant 2 shared that;

Ako ra unta dili sugalero, pero sukad gidala ko sa akong

barkada sa sabungan, nadani ko. Kada adto namo, ila gyud
kong dasigon og pustahay. Mao nang bisan gusto nako
mohunong, perming lisod kay pirming naay moinvite ug
moingon nga, 'Ay, panagsa ra bitaw ni!' Hangtod nibalik na pud
ko. [ I wasn’t really a gambler at first, but ever since my friends
brought me to the cockpit, I got hooked. Every time we went
there, they would really encourage me to place bets. That’s why,
even when I wanted to quit, it was always hard because there was
always someone inviting me, saying, 'Ah, this is just once in a
while!' Until eventually, I ended up going back again.]

Participant 3 mentioned that;

Sa amo barangay, normal na lang gyud ang sabong.

Bisan kinsa nga silingan, naa sa sabungan. Bati paminawon
kung dili ka moapil kay murag ikaw ra wala. Mao nang bisan
gusto nako undangon, tungod sa pressure sa mga tawo nga
akong kaila, makig-uban gihapon ko nila usahay. [In our
barangay, cockfighting is just normal. Almost everyone in the
neighborhood is at the cockpit. It feels strange if you don’t join
because it’s like you’re the only one who isn’t there. So, even if I
wanted to quit, because of the pressure from the people I know, I
still end up going with them sometimes.]

Participant 8 shared that;

Ang pamilya pa mismo nako kay sugalero pud. Mao nga

sukad gamay pa ko, kita nako nga okay ra ang magsabong. Dati
ginauban ko sa akoang papa gamay pako. Makita na nako kong
unsa ang ginabuhat sa sabongan. Mao to nga sa dihang
nagplano ko mohawa, lisod kay bisan sa balay, sabong gihapon
ang estoryahan. Perming naa’y mu-imbitar, lisod kaayo palayo
sa mga tao nga suod nimo. [Even my own family are gamblers.
Ever since I was young, I saw that cockfighting was considered
okay. My father used to take me with him to the cockpit when I
was little, so I already saw what was happening there. That’s
why when I planned to leave it behind, it was difficult—because
 even at home, cockfighting was still the main topic of
conversation. There was always someone inviting me, and it was
really hard to distance myself from the people close to me.]

Participant 4 shared that;

Dali ra unta mag-undang kung ikaw ra isa, pero kung

barkada nimo pirmi magdasig, lisod kaayo. Ilang mga istorya
bahin sa ilang mga daog, makadani kaayo. Makaingon ka nga
basin ikaw pud makaswerte. Mao nga bisan nakahuna-huna na
ko og hunong, balik gihapon ko tungod nila. [It would have been
easy to quit if I were alone, but if your close friends keep
encouraging you, it’s really hard. Their stories about their
winnings are so tempting. You start to think maybe you’ll get
lucky too. So even when I thought about quitting, I kept going
back because of them.]

Participant 2 stated that;

Sa among lugar, murag nahimong kultura ang sugal.

Bisan kinsa sa pamilya ug mga silingan, pirmi magsabong. Mao
to nga nanghagad akong silingan nga muadto sa sabongan.
Nitry ko, bisan babae ko, pero wala ko nisulod sa arena—didto
ra ko sa gawas uban sa uban pang mga babae nga nag-uban sa
ilang mga bana. Mao nga bisan nakadesisyon na ko nga
undangon, lisod gyud i-resist kung ang tanan nimong kaila,
sugal gihapon. Labi na kung mag-ingon sila nga, “Kondisyon
ang manok, mudaog lagi ta,” mulakaw gyud ko aron mobalik ug
sulayan nga mabawi tong napildi nako. [In our place, gambling
has become part of the culture. Almost everyone in the family
and the neighborhood is always involved in cockfighting. That’s
why when my neighbor invited me to go to the cockpit, I gave it
a try, even though I’m a woman. But I didn’t go inside the arena;
I just stayed outside with the other women who accompanied
their husbands. So even though I already decided to quit, it’s
really hard to resist when everyone you know is still gambling.
Especially when they say things like, “The rooster is in good
condition, we’ll surely win this time,” I find myself going with
them again, hoping I can recover what I lost before.]
 External influences, such as peer pressure and cultural acceptance, significantly

impact gambling behaviors, making cessation challenging. Individuals often feel

compelled to conform to group norms, leading to increased gambling participation. This is

particularly evident in communities where gambling is normalized, creating an

environment where resisting such behaviors becomes difficult. Peer pressure plays a

crucial role in encouraging gambling activities. Friends or acquaintances may directly urge

individuals to gamble, mock them for abstaining, or create situations where gambling is

the norm, making refusal challenging. The desire for social acceptance often leads

individuals to participate in gambling activities they might otherwise avoid (Gunn, 2025).

Coping Strategies of Gamblers after quitting Cock Fighting

Coping strategies are the conscious or unconscious efforts used by individuals to

manage stressors, regulate emotions, and adapt to challenging life situations, such as

overcoming addictive behaviors. According to Skinner and Zimmer-Gembeck (2016),

coping involves a dynamic process of selecting and applying strategies to manage

internal and external demands that are perceived as exceeding personal resources.

The results presented below show the coping strategies of gamblers after quitting

cockfighting. These coping strategies were drawn from the participants’ responses to

questions related to the reasons behind their decision to quit. Based on their answers,

three major factors were identified: (1) interconnectedness of positive relationships, (2)

familial recovery through proactive interventions, and (3) impact of gambling on family

dynamics. Each major theme is supported by sub-themes, which are specific codes

derived from the participants' own words and experiences.

Understanding Partner

Having an understanding partner was crucial in creating an interconnected

positive relationship for both Participant number 3 and Participant number 4. According

to Participant 3’s response, there were no conflicts within their home because his wife

was supportive of his gambling behavior. This created a harmonious relationship between

them. This implies that for Participant 3, his understanding partner played a significant

role in maintaining peace and contributed greatly to his decision to quit gambling.

Similarly, Participant 4 shared that there was no conflict because his partner

joined him in the gambling activities, particularly in cockfighting. When they won, they

celebrated together, knowing that the winnings would be used for essential household

needs, such as buying rice. This contributed to their happiness and strengthened their

bond. This response highlights how the mutual understanding between Participant 4 and

his partner created a positive dynamic that shaped his gambling behavior. The

understanding and support of a partner can potentially provide a sense of security and

contentment, which may allow participants to feel comfortable in their choices, whether

to continue or cease gambling. Both responses underline the importance of an

understanding partner in either maintaining or altering gambling behavior, emphasizing

the role of relationship dynamics in shaping the individuals’ coping mechanisms and

decisions. This had been evident to her response in the interview questions transcribed

and translated below.

Participant 3 mentioned that;

 Walay mga panagbangi kay suportado man niya ang
akong bisyo sa sugal. [There are no conflicts since she is
supportive of my gambling behavior.]

Participant 4 shared that;

Walay away kay pati siya nagauban man sa akoa if asa

may sabong. Pag makadaog mi magkadlaw ra mi tungod kay
may pang palit nami bugas pag ka uli namo. Sadya lagii mi.
[There's no conflict because he/she joins me wherever the
cockfighting is. When we win, we just laugh because we already
have money to buy rice when we get home. We're really happy.]

Not all relationships survive gambling addiction. But, if you are committed to

working together, this episode provides guidance and hope. For spouses and family

members, it is natural to feel upset when a loved one experiences a relapse. However, for

those committed to maintaining the relationship, it can be an opportunity to learn, grow,

and discover better ways to move forward together. After each relapse, take the time to

understand more about addiction and its complexities. With each setback, they gained

insights into the triggers and risky situations that could lead to gambling. For instance,

they began planning their travels carefully, ensuring that casinos were no longer part of

the itinerary. Over time, the importance of consistent communication is recognized. By

regularly connecting and discussing their feelings, they became more attuned to signs of

stress, anxiety, or depression in one another. This awareness allowed them to address

issues early, strengthening their bond and fostering a proactive approach to managing

challenges. Through their shared efforts, they turned each difficult moment into a step

toward a healthier, more supportive partnership (Cossom, 2024).

Enhancing Social and Spiritual Relationship

 Aside from having an understanding partner, enhancing social relationships

through taking care of their parents, spending time with their children and family, sitting

outside, and attending church activities were some of the coping strategies employed by

Participant 5, Participant 7, and Participant 8. This implies that drawing motivation from

their mother, relaxing by sitting outside, and building a spiritual connection through

attending various church activities significantly helped the participants cope with their

gambling habits. This is evident in the responses provided below.

Participant 5 said that;

Isa sa akon nga coping strategies amo ang pag-atipan sa

akon nga nanay, pagpungko sa guwa sang balay, pag-attend sang
mga aktibidad sa simbahan… kag wala na iban pa. [One of my
coping strategies are taking care of my mother, sitting outside,
attending church activities…and nothing more.]

Participant 7 mentioned that;

Mas mahatagan kona oras akon na mga bata subong kag

nagabulig na ako sa akon asawa sa amon business na pag baligya
sang ice. Kong dominggo kami na pamilya naga simba gd. Ang
uban tawo na tingala sa akon na mga ginabuhat tungod dati
makita nila ko na nagadala og manok pero karon kay wala na.
Nabuligan ako sini nga mabatyagan nga mas konektado kag
malayo ang akon huna-huna sa sabong. [I can now give my
children more time and help my wife with our ice-selling business.
On Sundays, our family goes to church together. Other people are
surprised by my changes because they used to see me carrying
roosters, but now I don’t anymore. This has helped me feel more
connected and kept my mind away from cockfighting.]

Participant 8 shared that;

Tungod kay ako ra usa ug tigulang na, ang pag-apil og

simba ug pagsulod sa Bible study groups nakahatag og kalinaw ug
katuyoan sa akong kinabuhi. Nakasabot ko nga mas naa pay mas
importante nga mga butang sa kinabuhi kay sa sugal, maong
nagdesisyon ko nga muundang. [Since I am alone and already
older, attending church regularly and joining Bible study groups
gave me a sense of peace and purpose. I realized that there are
 more important things in life than gambling, which is why I
decided to stop.]

Despite the widespread occurrence of gambling addiction and the recognition of

the spiritual model in recovery programs, the role of spirituality in the treatment of

pathological gambling has often been overlooked. Numerous studies have demonstrated

that pathological gambling can be successfully treated using various therapeutic

approaches. However, these studies frequently neglect to consider spirituality as a crucial

component of the recovery process, even though spiritual practices and beliefs have long

been integrated into other addiction recovery frameworks. The spiritual model, which

emphasizes personal growth, self-awareness, and a connection to something greater than

oneself, has been a cornerstone in the treatment of many addictive behaviors, such as

those addressed by programs like Alcoholics Anonymous. This model can provide

individuals with a sense of purpose, hope, and a supportive community, which are

essential in overcoming the challenges of addiction. However, when it comes to gambling

addiction, research often fails to integrate or investigate how these spiritual elements

might also play a significant role in helping individuals break free from compulsive

gambling behaviors (Walsh, n.d.).

Healthy Diversion with Animal Husbandry

The development of a healthy and purposeful relationship with farm animals has

proven to be a transformative coping strategy for several individuals struggling with

gambling addiction, particularly in cockfighting. Specifically, Participant 1, Participant 4,

and Participant 7 revealed that engaging in animal husbandry served as a meaningful

diversion that helped them quit gambling and rebuild their lives. Rather than spending

time and money in cockpits, these participants redirected their focus toward the care and

management of livestock—an endeavor that not only provided emotional stability but

also became a consistent source of income. Their testimonies underscore how animal

husbandry played a crucial role in improving their financial condition, which had

previously been compromised due to gambling-related losses.

Participant 1 mentioned that;

Nag-uma ra ko subong og naga-palitanay ug hayop pud ko

karon para naa koy kita, bisan ginagmay, okay na kaysa mag-
sabong nga mawadan pa ko ug kwarta. [I'm just farming now and
also buying and selling animals so I have an income. Even if it's
just small amounts, it's better than gambling and losing money.]

Participant 4 shared that;

Naga-paninguha ra ko nga makakita og kwarta diri, nag-

atiman sa mga hayop ug nag-uma. [I'm just trying to earn money
here, caring for the animals and farming.]

Participant 7 stated that;

Dako kaayo og natabang ang pagbuhi og mga baka ug

kanding sa akoa. Sa una, maghulat ra ko og oras para mosabong.
Karon, busy na ko sa pagpakaon ug pag-atiman sa mga hayop.
Makapalit pa ko og mga kinahanglanon namo tungod ani. [Raising
cattle and goats has helped me a lot. Before, I would just wait for
the time to gamble. Now, I’m busy feeding and taking care of the
animals. I can even buy what we need because of this.]

This redirection toward animal husbandry is not only a practical economic

alternative but also a deeply therapeutic process that promotes emotional stability and

self-worth. Proper animal care, as emphasized by The Editors of Encyclopaedia

Britannica (2024), involves more than the routine act of feeding—it requires a holistic
approach that includes a nutritious diet, regular veterinary attention, and an environment

that supports animals’ natural behaviors. For example, ensuring that birds such as hens

have adequate space and enrichment enables them to thrive physically and behaviorally.

This dynamic not only benefits the animals but also provides the caregivers—such as the

former gamblers in this study—with a structured, meaningful daily routine. Participants

found that raising livestock such as hens, goats, and cattle gave them a renewed sense of

responsibility and dignity, replacing the emotional chaos and financial instability brought

about by gambling. This structured engagement in animal husbandry offered a life-

affirming alternative, reducing idle time and temptation while contributing positively to

household income. In this context, responsible animal care becomes more than a task—it

becomes a rehabilitative journey that restores purpose, reinforces discipline, and builds

resilience against relapse into destructive behaviors.

Familial Relationship Recovery and Interventions

Most of the participants agreed that familial relationship recovery and

interventions played an important role as a coping mechanism among participants

(gamblers). According to the participants, the motivation externally driven by their

family catalyzes the realization they had later acquired. Thus, conflicts in the family are

minimized, times spent in the family are maximized and tensions are neutralized. This

claim was agreed by Participant number 1, Participant number 2, Participant number 3,

Participant number 5, Participant number 6 Participant number 7, and Participant number

8. This had been evident on the responses presented below.

Participant 1 shared that;

Nag-undang na ko sa sugal… ang akong relasyon sa ilaha

mas nagkadool na kaysa sa una… ang pangunang hinungdan sa
akong pag-undang kay ang akong pamilya… mao to nga panahon
nga daghan ko og mga realizasyon. [I have quit gambling…my
relationship with them has started to become closer than before…
main influence of my quitting was my family…that’s the time i
came into a lot of realizations.]

Participant 2 siad that;

Walay na'y magpanuko bahin sa akong mga bisyo ug mas

gamay na ang mga panagbangi. [There is no nagging about my
vices anymore and fewer conflicts.]

Participant 3 mentioned that;

Mas daghan na akong oras para sa akong pamilya… ang

akong pag-undang ug kapansanan nagpalig-on sa among
relasyon. [I have more time for my family…my quitting and
disability made us closer.]

Participant 5 stated that;

Wala koy pamilya nga ako ra… mas daghan na akong

oras para mag-atiman sa akong mama. […I don’t have a family
of my own…I have more time to take care of my mom.]

Participant 6 said that;

Wala na'y panuko ug panuko bahin sa akong bisyo sa

sugal. [.…scolding and nagging are no longer about my gambling
behavior.]

Participant 7 shared that;

Kalma na karon…wala na'y magpanuko ug away kay

niundang naman ko, mas maayo na akoang paminaw kay wala na
mangasaba. [It is peaceful now…no more nagging and fighting
 because I stopped, and I feel better now since no one is scolding
me.]

Participant 8 mentioned that;

Maayo na karon. Wala na'y tensyon tungod kay wala na'y

sabong. [It's good now. There's no more tension because there's no
more cockfighting.]

Family interventions play a crucial role in supporting individuals struggling with

gambling addiction, aligning well with the principles of the growing recovery movement

in mental health. This approach emphasizes the importance of community-based support,

setting personally relevant goals, instilling hope, and enhancing natural support systems

to create a more sustainable path to recovery. By focusing on these elements, family

interventions create a framework that not only addresses the individual’s gambling

behavior but also strengthens the relational ties that are fundamental to long-term healing.

One of the most powerful aspects of these interventions is the emphasis on crucial

relationships. For individuals battling gambling addiction, feeling supported by their

family can significantly impact their motivation to abstain from gambling. When a person

knows they have the unwavering support of loved ones who are actively involved in their

recovery journey, it can provide a sense of encouragement and accountability that is

difficult to achieve alone. This sense of belonging and connection helps to build

confidence and resilience, making it easier for the individual to navigate the challenges of

recovery (Gupta & Deverensky, 2000).