SENATE President Sherwin Gatchalian has called for a nationwide inspection of pet crematoriums and other animal aftercare businesses after 29 dead pets were found dumped along a roadside 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.
“Grieving pet owners paid for a decent final farewell for their beloved companion animals, only for them to be dumped like garbage on a roadside,” he said in a statement.
“This is a clear case of fraud, and those responsible for such an offense must be held accountable,” he added.
The remains of the dogs and cats were discovered in a vacant lot in Barangay Minuyan Proper. The animals were found inside plastic bags placed in several large sacks, with labels bearing their names and weights.
Linked to the incident was Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium in Bacoor City, Cavite, after pet owners raised complaints over the fate of their deceased animals entrusted to the establishment for cremation.
Bacoor 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.
More than 30 pet owners sought answers from the establishment, with some considering legal action and seeking compensation for the alleged failure to deliver the services they had paid for.
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society also urged affected pet owners to pursue legal action, saying the alleged misrepresentation of cremation services could constitute estafa under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code.
Against this backdrop, Gatchalian urged local government units (LGUs) nationwide and concerned government agencies, particularly the Bureau of Animal Industry, to inspect and audit 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.
Gatchalian said 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.
