A distressing viral video shared by pet owner Yvette Mayo has sparked outrage, revealing the grim scene of three deceased cats inside the holding facility of Barangay San Jose. Shockingly, two of the deceased felines were being consumed by other cats in the vicinity. Despite the disturbing evidence, Barangay San Jose chairman Jeff Frani vehemently denied any neglect of the cats under their care, asserting the provision of brand new bags of cat food for the animals. Frani highlighted that the barangay had enacted an ordinance in January aimed at managing the presence of stray dogs and cats on the streets.
However, PAWS executive director Anna Cabrera cast doubt on the explanations provided by barangay officials, citing her extensive experience as a cat rescuer. In an interview with TeleRadyo Serbisyo, Cabrera expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a cat attacking and cannibalizing another cat under normal circumstances. She suggested that hunger may have driven such behavior, but emphasized that it deviated from typical cat conduct. Cabrera criticized the barangay officials for allegedly neglecting the welfare of the cats, speculating that they may have assumed no repercussions would follow since the cats were caught outdoors.
Cabrera urged Mayo and any other witnesses to come forward and collaborate with PAWS in pursuing legal action against the barangay officials for animal cruelty. She referenced Section 6 of the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, which explicitly prohibits the torture, neglect, or maltreatment of animals. Additionally, Republic Act 10631 imposes penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for individuals found guilty of subjecting animals to cruelty, maltreatment, or neglect, particularly if such actions result in the death of the animal.
Regarding the issue of overpopulation, Cabrera explained that city pounds typically resort to euthanasia for unclaimed stray dogs and cats. She emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, advocating for spaying and neutering to curb overpopulation and prevent instances of neglect and abandonment.
The distressing incident has reignited calls for greater accountability and compassion towards animals, underscoring the imperative of upholding animal welfare laws and promoting responsible pet ownership practices.
