Metro Manila, Philippines – Animal welfare advocates have strongly condemned the discovery of the remains of more than 20 deceased dogs and cats dumped in a vacant lot in the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
The Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) expressed alarm over the incident, citing a similar dumping case as early as May, when two dogs were identified.
“The pattern is alarming. These animals were not simply abandoned; they were discarded, as if their lives meant nothing,” AKF said in a social media post.
The group emphasized that beyond the heartbreaking lack of dignity, improper disposal of animal remains poses serious public health and sanitation risks.
In a separate statement, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) said the Bacoor-based crematorium suspected of dumping the remains and deceiving pet owners could face charges of estafa (fraud).
“The bond between a person and a companion animal does not end with death. PAWS stands with affected pet parents in seeking truth, accountability, and justice. The trust of a grieving family is not something to be exploited,” the animal welfare group said.
The Animal Health and Welfare Division of the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) also expressed concern, underscoring that any act of neglect, abuse, cruelty, or failure to observe proper animal handling and disposal practices is punishable by law.
Although regulating pet crematoriums falls outside the agency’s direct jurisdiction, the BAI urged veterinary clinics and facilities that refer clients to such services to exercise due diligence to prevent future incidents.
“Let the incident serve as a stern reminder that cruelty, neglect, and irresponsible acts toward animals, whether living or deceased, have no place in a humane and compassionate society,” the division said.
‘Do your job properly’
For pet owner Bedylyn Pacete, a resident of San Jose del Monte, the discovery highlighted “horrible possibilities that can happen in unimaginable ways.”
The issue struck close to home for Pacete, who had availed herself of wake and cremation services at a local crematorium for her cat, Natsu, who died on Oct. 8 after 15 years of companionship.
Pacete contacted the facility for reassurance and was relieved to learn it was coordinating with authorities following reports about unethical crematoriums.
She urged crematorium operators to honor their obligations, emphasizing that their services are built on trust during deeply vulnerable moments for grieving families.
“For those who are in the line of crematorium business, besides the profit, I hope you have the heart to do your job properly,” she told NewsWatch Plus in an interview.
Call for compassion
Addressing critics who dismiss the gravity of the incident, Pacete pointed out that pets are family members and everyone grieves differently.
“The fact that furparents pay these crematorium businesses and entrust them with the care of their beloved companions during their final moments should be reason enough to expect, at the very least, dignity, compassion, and respect—for both the furparents and the furbabies,” she said. “Grief should never be another reason to shame people who are already hurting.”
Investigation and potential lawsuits
Upon receiving reports on the incident, Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla announced an inquiry led by the city’s legal, business permits and licensing, and environmental offices.
The local government unit also served a temporary closure order to the crematorium while the investigation continues.
“Patuloy at kasalukuyang isinasagawa ang imbestigasyon sa pakikipagtulungan ng ating kapulisan upang malaman ang buong katotohanan at matiyak na mapapanagot ang sinumang mapatunayang lumabag sa batas,” Revilla said.
[Translation: “An investigation is underway in cooperation with our police force to uncover the full truth and ensure that anyone found violating the law is held accountable.”]
PAWS announced Sunday that it has begun gathering documentary evidence to file criminal complaints against the owner of the crematorium.
Potential charges include violations of environmental, public health, and animal welfare regulations.
The group added that it will provide free legal assistance to affected pet owners.
