The Angeles City municipal trial court found three men guilty for slaughtering and eating a dog in violation of Republic Act 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998. This is the first time in the history of the local government to win a lawsuit of this nature.
The accused were identified as Amorsolo David Guevarra, Renato Henson Halili, and Jerry Locading Mari of Barangay Lourdes Sur. They were ordered to pay a fine of P6,000 each. Upon conviction by final judgment, they are expected to spend time in jail for six months up to two years, according to the law.
Mayor Carmelo Lazatin, Jr. considered the conviction of the three men as a victory for the cause of animal welfare. “Angeles City is a refuge for stray canines and felines rescued by the City Veterinary Office (CVO). I hope that this victory will serve as a deterrent to those who would commit similar acts of cruelty,” he said.
Angeles City CVO officer-in-charge Christian Xyric Arcilla filed the case and testified against the respondents, who pleaded guilty. Lawyer Ralph Macalino of the City Legal Office assisted in building the case in February last year.
Macalino said the court decision shows the commitment of the city government to prevent similar acts in the future. Premium animal welfare is among the priority programs of the Lazatin administration in Angeles City, such as free anti-rabies, neutering and spaying, and improving the animal pound facility.
Chief Adviser IC Calaguas and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, both known as animal advocates, were pleased with the decision, which was released last Feb. 13, 2024. They commended both the prosecution and the trial court for their swift and decisive action in this case.