PH Army: Soldier relieved over viral animal cruelty video

Make this your preferred source to get more updates from this publisher on Google.

A soldier who is allegedly involved in a viral video showing the slaughter of a dog has been relieved from his post, according to the Philippine Army on Tuesday.

“He was relieved doon sa kanyang duty,” Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala said at a press briefing.

(He was relieved from his duty.)

“Currently, nasa headquarters siya ng 1st Infantry Division awaiting ng final disposition ng kanyang kaso, administrative case, while also awaiting yung kanyang possible criminal case na ifa-file ng mga complainants,” he added.

(Currently, he is at the headquarters of the 1st Infantry Division awaiting the final disposition of his case, an administrative case, while also awaiting his possible criminal case to be filed by the complainants.)

The minimum penalty that may be imposed in the case is demotion, according to Dema-ala.

The 1st Infantry Division is based in Zamboanga del Sur.

Meanwhile, Dema-ala said the Army has recorded more than 300 violations of its social media policy, with 24 personnel being sanctioned.

“The Philippine Army strongly condemns any act of animal cruelty. Any personnel found responsible will face appropriate administrative and disciplinary sanctions, as well as any applicable legal consequences, in accordance with existing laws and regulations,” Dema-ala said in a separate statement.

“The Army will not tolerate misconduct and will ensure that those found guilty are held fully accountable, with due process observed,” he added.

Earlier, charity organization Strategic Power for Animal Respondents - Philippines (SPAR) earlier called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to impose disciplinary action against the soldier for butchering a dog and posting it on social media.

“As a member of the military, he is expected to know and follow the law. Ignorance of the law excuses no one. If the allegations are proven, there must be appropriate disciplinary action,” SPAR said.

“Animal cruelty is not a joke or something to post online for attention. We call on the authorities to investigate this case and hold anyone responsible accountable,” it added. —RF, GMA News