SENATOR Grace Poe on Monday called on the public to be more vigilant and proactive in reporting cases of animal cruelty, following the recent killing of a dog by a construction worker in Marilao, Bulacan.
“We laud the quick action of the neighbor who reported the incident and the barangay officials and the police who pursued the case,” said Poe in a statement.
The construction worker is now facing charges for allegedly beating the dog to death, a case that Poe said should be “relentlessly pursued until final judgment.”
The senator stressed the need for greater public involvement in protecting animal welfare, urging citizens to act promptly in the face of neglect or abuse.
“We hope more of our kababayans will show the same vigilance in reporting and addressing such acts of cruelty,” she said.
Poe also reiterated her commitment to strengthening the Animal Welfare Act, noting that existing laws need to be updated to ensure more effective protection of animals and accountability among pet owners.
“The Senate will continue to push for amendments that will reinforce responsible pet ownership and stricter enforcement,” she added.
“It is our enduring hope that compassion—not just for fellow human beings but for animals as well—will guide our actions,” Poe said.