Metro Manila, Philippines – Hundreds of pet owners filed complaints with the police against a Bacoor, Cavite-based business behind the alleged dumping of 25 dog and cat remains in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan discovered on Friday, Oct. 30.
Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla said ashes were also referred to the Philippine National Police Forensic Group for verification, in a possible case of mass animal cruelty.
Meanwhile, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and local government personnel helped in the recovery of over 30 pet remains from a septic tank on Tuesday afternoon, Nov 3.
This was the second carcass dumpsite in San Jose del Monte City. Bulacan.
The operation was conducted following a recent statement by NBI Director Melvin Matibag saying he ordered the Environmental Crimes Division to lead a comprehensive investigation.
“Malaking ano ‘to, betrayal of public trust,” Matibag was quoted as saying in an ambush interview, adding that the suspected pet crematorium may be held accountable for estafa and violation of environmental laws among others if proven responsible.
[Translation: This is a major betrayal of public trust.]
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society, Animal Kingdom Foundation, and a number of fur parents coordinated with the agency in relation to the probe.
Stronger animal welfare laws
Senator Kiko Pangilinan said in a post that Senate Bill No. 2501 or the proposed Revised Animal Welfare Act seeks the establishment of an Animal Welfare Bureau that would oversee strict enforcement of related laws.
He said the final version of the bill, also called “Dolly’s Act” after a dog in Aklan scalded with hot oil, would include setting up facilities such as pet crematoriums.
“Ang pagmamahal at pag-aalaga sa ating mga alagang hayop ay hindi dapat matapos sa kanilang pagkamatay. Nararapat lamang na mabigyan din sila ng maayos at marangal na huling hantungan,” Pangilinan added.
[Translation: The love and care for our animals should not end with their death. It is only right that they are given a proper and dignified resting place.]
Mamamayang Liberal Rep. Leila de Lima called on fellow lawmakers to prioritize the bill.
“This kind of violence should never be tolerated. It will not be the last unless we implement comprehensive and stricter laws to promote and protect animal rights and welfare,” De Lima said in a separate post.
Senator Pia Cayetano said she will also be filing a resolution to investigate the incident “in aid of legislation to strengthen existing laws.”
