MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) and the Bataan Animal Welfare Society condemned the burning of live kittens in Cabuyao, Laguna, after the act was recorded for social media content.
PAWS said that the Cabuyao City Police have identified the suspects, who are set to face appropriate complaints. The kittens were rescued and turned over to an animal welfare organization.
“This was not a prank. It was not entertainment. It was a deliberate and brutal act of cruelty against helpless animals, and it is against the law," the group said.
In an update, the Bataan Animal Welfare Society said two cats were involved.
One kitten, later named Nixie, survived after being set on fire. The organization said the suspects poured water on her afterward.
“Against all odds, Nixie is alive,” the group said.
Nixie sustained serious burns. The group said that blisters covered her body, including a large blister on her belly that burst and left the skin torn away.
The second cat, a ginger cat, was also targeted, but the attempt to set her on fire failed. The organization said she was not among the cats later surrendered to the barangay and remains missing.
“We do not know where the ginger cat is right now,” it said, appealing for information.
The Bataan Animal Welfare Society said that the suspects were drunk when they set the kittens on fire and repeatedly said, “Pasensya na po.”
"This will not end with a mere apology." the group said in Filipino, adding that it had begun case build-up with the police investigator.
Meanwhile, PAWS urged the public not to share, repost, download or circulate the video.
“Even angry engagement can give cruel content more reach,” PAWS said.
PAWS also emphasizes that it is looking into stronger penalties for animal cruelty committed for online content, engagement or profit and is pushing the proposed ALAGA Bill, which seeks to integrate humane education into the curriculum.
“We must teach compassion before cruelty becomes content," PAWS said, ending their statement.
