Sabong as a movement in Philippine dance
Sabong also appears as a dance subject. Cultural writing can use the same word for an animal contest, a motif, or a choreographed performance, so context matters.
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The cultural source
In an essay for the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Larry Gabao identifies a dance called Sabong that imitates movements of fighting roosters. The reference appears in a broader discussion of Philippine martial dance.
Movement and representation
A dance can represent gestures without being the activity it depicts. When reading about a performance, distinguish the movement motif from its staging, performers, and local setting.
Avoid a single national template
The NCCA essay discusses many traditions and communities. A brief mention of a dance should not be expanded into an unsupported claim that every locality performs the same choreography. Consult documented descriptions of a particular performance.