SENATOR Grace Poe on Thursday condemned the reported neglect and abuse at a dog pound in Masbate after a video surfaced showing a dead dog left inside the facility.
Calling the incident “deplorable,” Poe urged accountability from those responsible and emphasized that local government-run pounds must uphold humane standards in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act.
“Sadly, as this incident shows, many animals suffer from daily neglect under the care of some barangays,” she said.
The senator renewed her call for the passage of a bill aimed at strengthening animal welfare laws before the current Congress adjourns.
The proposed measure includes establishing an Animal Welfare Bureau to oversee nationwide protection efforts and ensure strict enforcement.
“Abuse, cruelty, and neglect of animals will no longer be met with mere warnings or light penalties but with swift and severe consequences,” Poe asserted.
The San Jacinto, Masbate dog pound has drawn public outrage after a viral video showed a dead dog with its head trapped between the bars, prompting criticism from dog owners and animal welfare groups.
