Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian on Sunday urged local government units and agencies concerned across the country, such as the Bureau of Animal Industry, to inspect and audit all operating pet service providers, including crematoriums.
He said LGUs and concerned agencies must ensure that such businesses are licensed, environmentally compliant, and observe clear standards of integrity.
Gatchalian made the call following the discovery of 29 dead dogs and cats abandoned in sacks in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
‘[It] is a blatant violation of environmental and sanitation laws. Worse, 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,’ said Gatchalian.
‘This is a clear case of fraud and those responsible for such an offense must be held accountable,’ he added.
‘As a pet parent myself, it is heartbreaking and concerning to hear about such treatment toward our pets, whom we consider members of the family,’ the Senate leader said.