‘UNACCEPTABLE ACT OF DECEIT’: Cebu dad condemns dumping of dead pets in Bulacan

Local

A MEMBER of the Cebu Provincial Board has condemned the reported discovery of dozens of dead pets that were allegedly entrusted to a pet cremation service but later found dumped in a vacant lot in the City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

Sixth District Board Member Malcolm Sanchez, a fur parent himself, delivered a privilege speech on Monday, Nov. 9, expressing concern and condemning the incident while extending his solidarity with the affected families.

Sanchez said families pay for pet cremation out of love and trust, and expecting a dignified farewell to their fur babies, only to find out that it was improperly handled by the establishment they entrusted with their deceased animal.

The board member said this is an "unacceptable act of deceit".

"Imagine waiting for the ashes you intend to bring home, only to recognize your pet in a photograph of discarded remains. You would have to face the loss all over again with anger, horror, and a sense of betrayal. The last time we carry our pets should be a place where we can say goodbye with dignity. No family should ever have to search a vacant lot to bring them home again," he said.

Sanchez, who owns 16 pets and was once a client of a pet cremation service, called on pet cremation businesses and other stakeholders to "do better," be transparent about their standards, and ensure that their practices are accountable and verifiable to prevent a similar incident from happening in Cebu.

"Explain what happens from collection and transport to storage, cremation, and the return of ashes. Clearly distinguish individual from communal cremation. Disclose any arrangement with another facility before accepting consent and payment. If equipment breaks down, inform the family, explain how the remains will be preserved, and offer alternatives," Sanchez said.

"A delay must never become an excuse for concealment or improper disposal. A reassuring message or an attractive urn is not enough. There should be records supporting the services performed. For responsible operators, transparency protects clients and strengthens public confidence in their work," he added.

The local legislator then invited owners and authorized representatives of pet cremation and aftercare establishments to attend the next regular session of the Provincial Board on November 16.

The meeting aims to discuss the establishments’ procedures in handling animal remains, the equipment they use, operational capacity and maintenance practices, and the safeguards to prevent the mixing up or misidentification of remains.

They will also be asked to present their standard operating procedures, consent forms, cremation records, equipment specifications, and other applicable permits and clearances.

Sanchez also invited the Cebu Animal Welfare Society, Happy Tails Animal Welfare Organization, Mayari Animal Rescue Organization, Island Rescue Organization, and other active animal welfare groups and pet owners in Cebu to share their experiences.

The board member said their inputs would help the board identify problems that may not have reached government complaint desks, the challenges encountered, and possible solutions.

"Their advice should help us develop state guidelines that can be followed, expected, and enforced. I further request the attendance of our Provincial Veterinary Office to explain the health, environmental, and sanitary hazards of dumping dead animals, proper handling and disposal procedures, and the response required when dumping is discovered," Sanchez said.

Sanchez emphasized the need for coordination among Cebu local government units (LGUs), stressing the importance of establishing clear and enforceable guidelines on pet cremation to ensure that deceased animals continue to receive humane and dignified treatment.

At least 29 dogs and cats reportedly brought to a pet crematorium in Bacoor City, Cavite, were later found inside sacks dumped in a vacant lot in Barangay Minuyan Proper, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

Witnesses reported that unidentified individuals unloaded several large sacks containing the remains of dogs and cats from a white van on Oct. 29, according to the police investigation.

The San Jose del Monte City Police Station received a report from residents about a foul odor coming from the dumped sacks.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered that the sacks contained the remains of dead cats and dogs.(MyTVCebu)