THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Tuesday said it would conduct a parallel investigation into the illegal dumping of the remains of 29 pet dogs and cats at a vacant lot in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
In a statement, NBI Director Melvin Matibag said he had directed several divisions of the agency led by the Environmental Crimes Division (EnCD), to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
He added that all regional officers in Calabarzon and Central Luzon have been instructed to assist in the investigation.
The NBI director said the investigation will determine the possible liability of the operators of Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium for violation of Article 315 (2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code or estafa.
It was reported that the owners of the deceased pets found abandoned in Bulacan had paid for the cremation services of Ahjay Paws, but such apparently not performed.
The NBI team will also conduct verification of operational capacity, including business permits, equipment, CCTV footage, and chain of custody of remains.
The team will also coordinate with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, (DILG) Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Philippine National Police (PNP), and concerned local government units for compliance inspection of similar facilities, as recommended by Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).
‘We will pursue a scientific and evidence-based approach, including forensic examination where necessary, to determine whether the remains entrusted to the facility and whether the ashes returned to owners can be authenticated,’ Matibag said.
Matibag also urged affected pet owners to submit their receipts, cremation certificates and other relevant communications to the NBI headquarters as part of its case build-up.
‘As a pet lover, I understand and deeply sympathize with those who have fallen victim to this fraudulent act. It is unacceptable that the trust and hard-earned money entrusted by pet owners were repaid with deceit. Instead of providing proper cremation services, the pets were dumped like garbage,’ Matibag said.
‘The NBI will see to it that this incident is thoroughly investigated and that appropriate cases will be filed based on the evidence,’ he added.