Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has called for stricter regulation and accountability of pet service providers following the discovery of 29 deceased pets stuffed inside sacks and abandoned along a roadside in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.
Gatchalian condemned the incident, describing it as a violation of environmental and sanitation laws and a betrayal of grieving pet owners who had paid for a dignified farewell for their beloved animals.
The senator said those responsible must be held accountable, particularly if pet owners were deceived into believing their animals had been properly cremated.
“This is a clear case of fraud and those responsible for such an offense must be held accountable,” Gatchalian said.
He urged local government units (LGUs) nationwide and concerned government agencies, including the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), to inspect and audit all operating pet service providers, particularly crematoriums.
Gatchalian said inspections should ensure that these establishments are properly licensed, comply with environmental regulations, and uphold standards of integrity in handling deceased animals.
The senator, who is also a pet owner, expressed sadness and concern over the incident, emphasizing that pets are considered members of the family.
“Bilang isa ring pet parent, nakakalungkot at nakakabahala na marinig ang ganitong pagtrato sa mga alaga nating tinuring nang miyembro ng pamilya,” Gatchalian said.
The incident has raised concerns over the regulation of pet aftercare services and the need for stronger safeguards to protect pet owners from possible fraudulent practices.
Gatchalian stressed that stricter oversight is necessary to prevent similar incidents and ensure that families receive the services they paid for when bidding farewell to their pets.
