Cows ran through the streets during a chaotic rodeo in the Philippines.

The cattle were released from a truck before darting on the road as locals cheered at the Rodeo Masbateno festival in Masbate City on April 12.

A group of men then chased and wrestled the creatures - seemingly emaciated with rib cages showing through their muscles - in a bid to take them home as prizes.

Footage shows the confused animals trying to escape as a band of locals chased and pinned them down. The animals were held to the ground and hog-tied for the brutal festival.

Local Iro Cortez said: 'It was an exciting and intense game. I felt like I was in a rodeo in Mexico.'

Oraganisers said that 30 cows and calves were released into roads so festival goers could capture and take them home.

Meanwhile, some shocked onlookers were uncomfortable with the treatment of animals.

Charitess Barlis said: ‘I know it's tradition and part of the culture but I pity the cows being defeated by men.'

Despite the seeming cruelty to animals, most locals welcomed its return after the event was paused due to the pandemic.

The week-long festival opened on April 9 and ran in a series of events and games until April 16.

Aside from the cattle catching race ‘Juego de Toro' which translates to ‘bull game', local cowboys and cowgirls showcased skills in handling cows and horses such as lassoing, wrestling, and bull riding.