Briones: Yes, that was me

Agap Partylist Rep. Nicanor Briones on Wednesday admitted he was the lawmaker caught on video watching online sabong (cockfights) during Monday’s opening session of the 20th Congress.

Briones apologized for the incident, but vehemently denied that he actively participated or engaged in e-sabong or any other form of gambling. He said he had merely received the link with the online sabong from someone.

“I felt ashamed for my colleagues in Congress, for the Speaker, and for the image this has brought to the entire House. I apologize to anyone who was offended,” Briones told reporters.

The lawmaker accused those who made the video go viral of spreading “fake news” to make it appear that he was involved in e-sabong, which has been banned by the government.

“Whoever took that video and made fake news that I was watching online cockfighting, I don’t know your motives, but it’s over, I forgive you. Just don’t do it again because you might end up in jail next time,” he said.

To show that his conscience is clear, Briones said he would file a bill seeking a total ban on e-sabong and all forms of gambling in the country.