Legarda files resolution probing pet remains scam in Bulacan

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Loren Legarda on Friday filed a legislative resolution seeking to investigate the alleged dumping of remains of dogs and cats in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

Legarda, through Senate Resolution No. 759, aims to open a Senate probe into reports involving Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium in Bacoor City, Cavite, which reportedly disposed of the deceased bodies of several animals.

READ: Dead pets dumping in Bulacan: Senators seek tougher measures; probe set

Article continues after this advertisement

“Our pets are cherished members of our families. Entrusting their remains to a cremation service is a final act of love and respect,” Legarda stressed in a statement.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

“To allegedly exploit that trust, collect payment for services that may not have been rendered, and discard their remains without dignity is unconscionable,” she added.

The move aims to review existing laws and regulations to determine whether they provide sufficient safeguards for pet owners. 

It also seeks to closely examine the licensing, operation, and inspection of pet cremation and aftercare establishments.

Legarda intends to review standards for proper handling and procedures in the cremation and disposition of deceased pets, as well as verification processes to ensure the remains are returned to their owners.

Article continues after this advertisement

“Pet owners deserve assurance that the services they pay for are performed properly and that the remains of their beloved companions are treated with dignity. We must examine the gaps in our existing regulations and establish appropriate safeguards to prevent similar incidents from happening again,” she said.

READ: Legarda seeks probe into ‘unconscionable’ dumping of pet remains

Article continues after this advertisement

The senator then called on the Department of Agriculture, through the Bureau of Animal Industry, the Departments of Trade and Industry, Environment and Natural Resources, Health, and the Interior and Local Government, and concerned local government units to work closely together to examine the matter.

She, moreover, urged a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident to pursue appropriate legal action if warranted by evidence.

At least 250 pet owners have filed complaints against the Bacoor pet crematorium over its alleged mishandling of animal remains.

Several senators, including Sens. JV Ejercito and Pia Cayetano, earlier said that they would push for an investigation and file a resolution in aid of legislation to address the incident.

“Sa mga pamilyang nawalan ng kanilang minamahal na alaga, nakikiisa ako sa inyong dalamhati at galit. Hindi dapat samantalahin ang inyong pagtitiwala, lalo na sa ganitong pagkakataon. Karapatan ninyong malaman ang katotohanan at makamit ang katarungan,” Legarda said.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

(“To the families who have lost their beloved pets, I share in your grief and anger. Your trust should not be taken advantage of, especially in a situation like this. You have the right to know the truth and to obtain justice.”) /mr