NBI divisions ordered to investigate dumped dogs, cats in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan

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Several teams of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will investigate the dumping of the remains of pet dogs and cars on a roadside in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, NBI Director Atty. Melvin Matibag said on Monday.

Matibag said this after the decomposing carcasses of more than 26 dogs and three cats were found sealed in plastic bags and dumped in Barangay Minuyan Proper on Saturday.

The NBI described the incident not only as a failure of service but as a grave betrayal of public trust.

“Accordingly, I have directed several divisions of the NBI, led by the Environmental Crimes Division (EnCD), to conduct a comprehensive investigation. They will be supported by all our Regional Offices in CALABARZON and Central Luzon,” Matibag said.

"We will pursue a scientific and evidence-based approach, including forensic examination where necessary, to determine whether the remains recovered correspond to pets entrusted to the facility and whether the ashes returned to owners can be authenticated," he added.

The NBI said it has also taken cognizance of reports linking Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium to the incident.

Matibag urged affected pet owners to coordinate with the agency by submitting cremation receipts, certificates, and other related documents to the NBI Headquarters to help build a strong case.

He said the bureau’s investigation will focus on three main areas:

The documentation and consolidation of complaints for possible estafa under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code, in cases where payment was collected for services allegedly not performed;

The verification of operational capacity, including business permits, equipment, CCTV footage, and chain of custody of remains; and

Coordination with the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Philippine National Police, and concerned local government units for compliance inspections of similar facilities, as recommended by the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).

The NBI emphasized that the incident is unacceptable, especially since it involves a breach of trust, monetary payments, and beloved pets entrusted to a facility, only to be met with alleged deception.

Earlier, the Animal Kingdom Foundation expressed readiness to assist in filing criminal charges against those involved, while other animal welfare advocates called on government agencies to investigate pet cremation services nationwide. –NB, GMA News