Lawmaker calls for accountability and passage of proposed animal welfare measures as investigation into alleged pet cremation scam continues
MANILA, Philippines — House Senior Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima has called for stricter animal welfare laws and accountability following the discovery of 29 dead dogs and cats dumped in a vacant lot in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan.
De Lima condemned the incident on Sunday, November 1, describing the disposal of the animals as a cruel act that caused additional grief to families who considered their pets members of their households.
“What was done to the 29 furbabies found in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, is absolutely despicable,” De Lima said in a statement.
“How could they have committed such an evil act against innocent souls and the families who are grieving the loss of their loved ones? THEY ARE NOT TRASH TO BE JUST THROWN AWAY!” she added.
The lawmaker called on authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible, including individuals who may have been involved in similar acts.
De Lima also urged Congress to prioritize the passage of her proposed Animal Welfare Enforcement Act and the Revised Animal Welfare Act, saying stronger legislation is necessary to prevent further incidents and promote humane treatment of animals.
“This kind of violence should never be tolerated. It will not be the last unless we implement comprehensive and stricter laws to promote and protect animal rights and welfare,” she said.
29 animal remains discovered in Bulacan
The remains of 29 dogs and cats were discovered on October 30 in a vacant lot along New Town Street in Barangay Minuyan Proper, San Jose del Monte City.
Animal welfare advocates from Luna and Furry Siblings reported the discovery, with the animals reportedly found inside plastic bags and sacks. Some of the bags bore identifying information, including names and weights, raising concerns that the remains belonged to pets entrusted to a cremation service.
The discovery triggered outrage among pet owners and animal welfare advocates, who questioned whether the animals had actually been cremated as promised.
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) condemned the alleged deception, saying pet owners had paid for a service intended to provide their deceased companions with a dignified farewell.
PAWS also urged affected pet owners to preserve receipts, cremation certificates, messages, photographs and other relevant documents that could support possible complaints.
The organization said the alleged misrepresentation of cremation services could constitute estafa under Article 315 of the Revised Penal Code, depending on the evidence and circumstances of each case.
Pet crematorium’s business permit suspended
The controversy also prompted Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla to order the suspension of the business permit of Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium, an establishment reportedly linked to the incident.
Revilla said the city government met with pet owners and representatives of the crematorium to seek explanations and gather information.
According to reports, the establishment claimed to have crematorium facilities in Caloocan and Bacoor but allegedly failed to provide sufficient documentation to establish that the animals entrusted to its services had actually been cremated.
The crematorium’s owners also reportedly could not confirm whether the remains found in Bulacan came from their facility.
Revilla said some affected pet owners were seeking financial compensation, while others had sought police assistance to pursue possible criminal complaints.
The mayor said further investigation would be conducted in coordination with concerned agencies and complainants.
The suspension of the business permit is an administrative action and does not, by itself, establish criminal liability.
Calls for nationwide inspection
The incident has also prompted calls for stronger regulation of pet crematoriums and other animal aftercare service providers.
Animal welfare advocates have urged local government units to inspect businesses offering cremation and related services to ensure they operate legally and comply with applicable regulations.
Animal Kingdom Foundation president and program director Atty. Heidi Caguioa said the group would appeal to LGUs and the Environmental Management Bureau to review and inspect crematoriums and aftercare facilities within their jurisdictions.
The organization is also coordinating with pet owners who may have been affected by the alleged fraudulent practices.
Meanwhile, House Deputy Minority Leader and Akbayan Party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña called for accountability and the suspension of business licenses if evidence establishes that pet aftercare facilities were responsible for the improper disposal of the animals.
Cendaña also renewed calls for the passage of the proposed ALAGA Bill, which seeks stronger penalties for animal cruelty, abuse and neglect.
Beyond animal welfare
The case has raised questions not only about animal welfare but also about consumer protection, business accountability and the regulation of services entrusted with handling the remains of deceased pets.
For grieving pet owners, cremation services are often intended to provide a respectful and dignified way to say goodbye to their companions.
The alleged failure to deliver such services, if established, could expose pet owners to both emotional distress and financial loss.
De Lima stressed that the incident must not be treated as an isolated controversy, urging lawmakers to strengthen the country’s legal framework for animal protection.
“Justice for the 29 furbabies! Justice for their families!” she said.
Authorities are expected to continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery, including the identities of the animals, the services allegedly rendered to their owners, and the individuals or establishments that may be responsible.
The case underscores the need for effective enforcement, transparent business practices and stronger safeguards to ensure that animals and their owners are treated with dignity.
Sources: The Manila Times, Daily Tribune, TV5 News, PAWS, and statements from Rep. Leila de Lima and Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla.
