MANILA, Philippines — Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian has called for a nationwide inspection of pet crematoriums and other animal aftercare businesses after 29 dead animals were found in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
Gatchalian said pet owners who paid for what they expected to be a dignified final farewell for their beloved companions were instead left with the distressing discovery that the animals had been discarded like garbage.
He denounced the incident as a “clear case of fraud.”
“Those responsible for such an offense must be held accountable,” he said.
The pet dumping was linked to Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium in Bacoor City, Cavite.
Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla ordered the crematorium closed after its owner failed to present sufficient documentation and CCTV footage proving that the cremations had actually been carried out. The owner reportedly said some animals had been brought to another facility in Caloocan City for cremation but could not provide adequate proof of the procedures.
Gatchalian urged local government units (LGUs) nationwide and concerned government agencies, particularly the Bureau of Animal Industry, to conduct inspections and audits of all operating pet service providers, including crematoriums.
He said authorities must verify whether these establishments are properly licensed, comply with environmental and sanitation regulations, and observe clear standards of integrity in handling deceased animals.
He stressed that businesses offering pet cremation and aftercare services must be “licensed, environmentally compliant, and held to clear standards of integrity” to ensure that no other family experiences similar treatment.
Gatchalian also expressed dismay over the incident, saying he could relate to the grief of pet owners who consider their animals members of the family.
“As a pet parent myself, it is heartbreaking and alarming to hear about our beloved pets being treated this way when we consider them members of our family,” he said.