Senator Grace Poe reaffirmed her commitment to passing a tougher animal welfare bill, emphasizing the growing need to address increasing cases of animal abuse in the Philippines.
Poe highlighted disturbing incidents, such as the killing of a dog in the Visayas and a viral video showing a tricycle driver dragging a cat in Pangasinan, underscoring that many abusers remain unpunished.
The senator filed Senate Bill No. 2458, aiming to amend the 26-year-old Animal Welfare Act by introducing stricter penalties and establishing a Barangay Animal Welfare Task Force to respond swiftly to animal cruelty cases.
The bill also seeks to deputize trained volunteers as animal welfare officers and encourage responsible pet ownership.
Poe stressed the urgency of passing the bill before the 19th Congress concludes in June 2025, calling it a reflection of the nation’s compassion.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 13, 2025
