Philippines: Cockfighting

"Tinali, Tinalo, Tinola"

Feathered warriors inside their cage.

A "sabungero" starts his day with a morning cord walk.

A gentle touch is considered an art form.

Watchful eyes during a sparring session.

"Tare" or knife is attached to a rooster's leg before the fight.

Warming-up before the battle inside the arena.

"Kristos" communicate by hand signals complemented by a cacophony of betting.

A swift shuffling stroke.

Breathing stops.

A fluffy flurry.

"Sentensiyador" or arbiter gives the final verdict.

The "cock doctor" operates on the winning bird.

The "talunan" or loser is the winner's trophy ... or dinner.