19/01/2026
FACT-FINDING INVESTIGATION REPORT
(Alleged Animal Cruelty Incident at Barangay 154, Malolos St. Bagong Barrio Caloocan City.)
The City Veterinary Department conducted a fact-finding investigation on January 14, 2026, regarding an alleged animal cruelty incident that occurred on January 7, 2026, in Barangay 154, Malolos Street, Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City.
As part of the investigation, representatives of the Department coordinated with Barangay Captain John C. Alayan of Barangay 154. According to Barangay Captain Alayan, he was not immediately informed of the incident and only became aware of the matter upon arriving at his office at around 8:00 A.M. on the same day. He further stated that barangay personnel initially responded. However, the barangay tanod were hesitant to rescue the dog due to its aggressive behavior at the time.
Based on the CCTV footage of Barangay 154 dated January 7, 2026, at approximately 6:22 A.M., a dog was seen passing by a meat store allegedly owned by the suspect. Moments later, the dog returned and grabbed a plastic bag containing meat from a yellow crate. After the dog successfully took the plastic bag of meat, the suspect was observed attacking the dog with a knife, resulting in a serious injury to the dogβs left forelimb.
The dog appeared shocked and wounded, with visible bleeding. A man riding a Yamaha NMAX motorcycle, considered a possible witness, was also seen reacting to the incident. The witness followed the dog, which later lay down for several seconds due to the injury it sustained.
At around 6:30 A.M., the same dog was again seen grabbing a piece of chicken meat from a motorcycle while still injured. The motorcycle owner did not attempt to harm the dog.
At approximately 6:37 A.M. on the same date, CCTV footage further showed the dog passing by the same meat store again. During this instance, the suspect was observed displaying aggressive behavior toward the dog and appeared to be preparing to attack it with a knife for the second time.
While police officers of Police Station 5, Bagong Barrio were conducting a routine patrol, they were informed by a concerned citizen regarding an animal that had been stabbed and needed immediate assistance.
The responding police officers immediately proceeded to the location and found the dog suffering from severe trauma to its left forelimb with continuous bleeding. Without hesitation, the officers transported the injured dog to the nearest veterinary hospital, PETLINK EDSA, for emergency medical treatment.
Despite the provision of initial veterinary care, the dog later succumbed to severe physical trauma. Based on the Death Certificate issued by the attending veterinary clinic/hospital, the cause of death was determined to be SEVERE HYPOXIA AND HYPOVOLEMIA LEADING TO CARDIAC ARREST.
The Police Station 5, Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City, has conducted a parallel investigation and identified a possible suspect. The police officers advised that verification of the suspectβs identity is still currently ongoing.
In addition, and in support of the ongoing investigation, the City Veterinary Department, in coordination with Police Station 5, Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City, respectfully appeals to the public for assistance in the identification of the suspect. Any individual who may have relevant information, personal knowledge, or additional details regarding the identity, whereabouts, or circumstances involving the said incident is encouraged to coordinate with Police Station 5 or the City Veterinary Department.
This appeal is made solely to aid lawful investigation and case build-up, and all information received shall be subject to verification by the proper authorities.
Again. WE STRONGLY CONDEMN any act of cruelty against animals. The circumstances surrounding this incident are deeply disturbing and constitute a direct violation of the principles of humane treatment and animal welfare as provided under Republic Act No. 8485, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631 (The Animal Welfare Act).
It is important to clarify that animals act on instinct rather than intent. Behaviors such as taking or eating food are often driven by survival needs, especially among stray or unattended animals. Responsible pet ownership is a legal obligation, and neglect, abandonment, or failure to properly control an animal may contribute to situations that place both the animal and the public at risk. Regardless of the circumstance, violence or harm against animals is never justified and remains punishable under existing laws.
Let this be clear, no animal deserves to suffer or die in such a manner. Situations involving stray animals require humane, lawful, and compassionate interventions, such as immediate reporting, rescue, and coordination with proper authoritiesβnot violence.
The City remains steadfast in upholding animal welfare and ensuring that violations are addressed with the full force of the law.
COMPASSION MUST NEVER BE OPTIONAL.