Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
TWENTIETH (20th) CONGRESS 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
House Bill No. ____ 
Introduced by Rep. Robert Nazal 
AN ACT 
STRENGTHENING ANIMAL WELFARE STANDARDS, 
ENACTING A REVISED ANIMAL WELFARE ACT, THEREBY REPEALING 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8485, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10631, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
The Philippines regards animals as both treasured household companions and vital 
contributors to the rural economy. A nationwide survey in 2023 showed that sixty-four 
percent of Filipino households keep pets, four out of five of which care for at least one 
dog while roughly half keep cats. Yet only about ten thousand active veterinarians and 
fewer than five hundred clinics serve the entire country, leaving an estimated 
two-thousand pets for every veterinarian. On the production side, livestock generated 
more than sixty-three billion pesos, over fifteen percent of total agricultural output in the 
second quarter of 2024, demonstrating that humane husbandry is integral to food 
security and livelihoods. 
Despite this importance, consistent animal-welfare enforcement remains elusive. 
Between January and May 2024, the Department of Health recorded 169 human rabies 
deaths, a thirteen-percent rise over the same period the previous year; from 2020 to 
2024, rabies claimed 1,750 Filipino lives, and ninety-two percent of 2024 cases were 
traced to dog bites. High-profile abuse incidents involving poisoned strays, viral videos 
of pet maltreatment, and overcrowded transport continue to outrage communities and 
expose gaps in the current legal framework. 
July 24, 2025
11:27 am
2248


Republic Act 8485, as amended by RA 10631, provided a foundation for humane 
treatment but scattered enforcement across offices with limited resources. The 
proposed Revised Animal Welfare Act addresses these deficiencies by creating a 
dedicated Animal Welfare Bureau under the Department of Agriculture with nationwide 
reach and clear rule-making, inspection, and permitting powers. It deputizes 
animal-welfare enforcement officers from both law-enforcement agencies and 
accredited civil-society groups; codifies science-based standards for nutrition, shelter, 
transport, and the “five freedoms” for pets, livestock, working and laboratory animals; 
imposes stronger penalties ranging from higher fines and imprisonment to vehicle 
forfeiture and perpetual disqualification for habitual offenders; mandates animal-welfare 
education in all primary and secondary schools; and requires local government units to 
integrate spay-and-neuter programs and disaster-response protocols for animals into 
their Seal of Good Local Governance metrics. 
Protecting animals also protects public health, supports farmers’ market access to 
export destinations that demand strict welfare certifications, and nurtures the national 
value of compassion. As President Ramon Magsaysay reminded the nation, “Those 
who have less in life should have more in law.” Animals, with no voice in court, deserve 
the law’s full protection, while Filipinos gain cleaner streets, safer food, and healthier 
communities. Swift passage of the Revised Animal Welfare Act will align Philippine 
standards with international best practices, strengthen biosecurity against emerging 
zoonotic threats, and fulfill the constitutional duty to safeguard a balanced and healthful 
ecology. 
By supplying the modern enforcement architecture our data show is lacking, this 
measure balances the interests of pet owners, farmers, researchers, and the general 
public. Its enactment will prove that the country’s progress is measured not only by 
economic growth but also by the compassion it extends to every living creature that 
shares its islands. 
In view of the foregoing, the immediate passage of this bill is earnestly sought. 
Rep. ROBERT NAZAL 
Representative 


Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
TWENTIETH (20th) CONGRESS 
FIRST REGULAR SESSION 
House Bill No. ____ 
Introduced by Rep. Robert Nazal 
AN ACT 
STRENGTHENING ANIMAL WELFARE STANDARDS, 
ENACTING A REVISED ANIMAL WELFARE ACT, THEREBY REPEALING 
REPUBLIC ACT NO. 8485, AS AMENDED BY REPUBLIC ACT NO. 10631, 
APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
CHAPTER I  
TITLE, DECLARATION  OF POLICY, AND DEFINITION  OF TERMS 
SECTION 1. TITLE.  
This Act shall be known as “The Revised Animal Welfare Act”. 
SECTION 2. DECLARATION OF POLICY.  
It is the State’s policy to  protect  life,  liberty,  and  property  including  the promotion of 
animal welfare by establishing a system of supervision  and regulation  to ensure  
humane  treatment in  all  aspects  of  keeping,  maintaining,  handling, transporting,  
breeding,  training,  treating,  and  use  of animals. Good animal welfare involves 
adherence to the five (5) basic freedoms of animals namely:  
A. Freedom from thirst, hunger, and malnutrition;
B. Freedom from physical discomfort and pain;
C. Freedom from injury and disease;
D. Freedom to express normal behaviors; and
E. Freedom from fear and distress.
SECTION  3.  DEFINITIONS.
As used in this Act: 
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A.​ Animals  refer  to  domesticated  vertebrate  and invertebrate  species  under  the  
control  of  man,  which may be food-producing, companion, laborers,  aquatic,  or  
laboratory.  The  term  excludes humans;  
 
B.​ Animal facility refers to any facility, structure, or  premises  used  for  the  purpose  of  
keeping,  caring, breeding,  rearing,  holding,  gaming,  training,  trading, treating, or 
exhibiting animals, including but not limited to farms,  zoos,  aviaries,  apiaries,  
kennels,  race  tracks, cockpits, pet shops, shelters, national or local government 
pounds,  animal  rescue  centers,  airports,  and  seaports quarantine  stations,  
animal  holding  facilities,  stables, livestock  markets,  stockyards,  corrals, stud  
farms,  stock farms,  slaughterhouses,  aquaria,  laboratories,  veterinary clinics, and 
veterinary hospitals;  
 
C.​ Animal  welfare  refers  to  the  physical  and psychological  well-being  of  animals.  
It  includes,  but  is not  limited  to,  avoiding  abuse,  maltreatment,  cruelty, and  
exploitation  of  animals  by  humans  through the maintenance  of  appropriate  
standards  for accommodation,  feeding,  and  general  care;  preventing and  
treating  diseases;  assuring  freedom  from  fear, distress,  harassment,  and  
unnecessary  discomfort  and pains and allowing animals to express natural 
behavior;  
 
D.​ Animal  fighting  venture  refers  to  any  event, show,  exhibition,  program,  or  other  
activity  that involves  a  fight  conducted  between  two  (2)  or  more animals  for  
purposes  of sport, wagering, amusement, or entertainment; ​
 
 
E.​ Animal Welfare Enforcement Officer refers to the Philippine  National  Police  (PNP),  
National  Bureau  of Investigation (NBI) and other law enforcement agencies, 
citizens’  groups,  community  organizations,  and  other volunteer  members  of  
non-government  organizations (NGOs),  and  people’s  organizations  (POs)  
designated  as such by the Secretary of Agriculture;  
 
F.​ Bureau refers to the Animal Welfare Bureau;  
 
G.​ Captive  animals  refer  to  animals  that  are confined  for  educational  or  
recreational  purposes  in places  such  as  but  not  limited  to  zoos, sanctuaries, 
rescue centers, sea or ocean facilities;   
 
H.​ Department  refers  to  the  Department  of Agriculture (DA);  
 
I.​ Director  refers  to  the  individual  in  charge  of the  Bureau;  
 
J.​ Euthanasia  refers  to  the  Bureau-approved process or method of painless death of 
animals;  
 


K.​ Keeper refers to any person who owns, possesses, or has control or custody over 
an animal;   
 
L.​ Local government unit (LGU) refers to a province, city, or municipality;  
 
M.​Pets  refer  to  domestic  animals documented  or otherwise, intended  for  
companionship,  therapy,  seeing and  hearing  guide, recreation and value 
formation, and breeding  such  as  but  not  limited  to  dogs,  cats,  fishes, rabbits,  
rodents,  reptiles,  and  birds  that  are  either acquired  locally  or  through  
importation  under government rules and regulations;   
 
N.​ Person  refers  to  any  individual,  corporation, company,  business,  enterprise,  
association,  partnership, syndicate, trust, or other entity;  
 
O.​ Reporter  refers  to  any  person  who  reports  a suspected  violation  of  any  
provision  of  this  Act  to  the proper authorities;   
 
P.​ Secretary refers to the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture;    
 
Q.​ Strategic  Lawsuit  Against  Public  Participation (SLAPP)  refers  to  a  legal  action  
filed  to  harass,  vex, exert undue pressure, or stifle any legal recourse that any 
person, institution, or the government has taken or may take in the enforcement of 
this Act;   
 
R.​ Transport facility refers to any public or private transportation, whether by  air, water,  
or land, including tricycles  and  the  like,  used  to  move  animals  to  a particular 
destination; and  
    
S.​ Wild animal refers  to  any animal  species  that is  not  normally  domesticated  in  
the  Philippines, including those in captivity under the control of a person.  
The  Bureau  may  define  such  other  terms  as  may be used  in the implementation of 
this Act.  
 
SECTION  4. COVERAGE.   
 
This  Act  shall  apply  to  all programs,  activities,  and  undertakings  of  individuals, 
corporations,  associations,  organizations,  or  entities, including but not limited to 
animal producers, small-hold farmers, private entities, or government agencies, that 
handle,  breed,  train, keep, care for, transport, exhibit,  display,  use,  or otherwise 
interact with animals, whether  as  pets,  livestock,  wildlife,  or  animals used  for 
education, entertainment, or show; or own,  operate,  or  maintain  any  facility  that 
interacts with animals.  
 
SECTION 5. ANIMAL WELFARE PRINCIPLES.  
 


Animal welfare standards,  practices,  policies,  and  regulations  shall  be based on the 
following principles:  
 
A.​ Decisions  regarding  animal  care,  use,  and welfare shall be made by balancing 
scientific knowledge and  professional  judgment  with  consideration  of  ethical and 
societal values;  
 
B.​ Animals  must  be  provided  with  water,  food, proper  handling,  health  care,  and  
an  environment appropriate  to  their  care  and  use,  with  thoughtful consideration 
for their species-typical biology and behavior;  
 
C.​ Animals  should  be  cared  for  in  ways  that minimize  fear,  pain,  stress,  and  
suffering.  Conservation and management of animal populations should be humane, 
socially responsible, and scientifically prudent;  
 
D.​ Protection of animal habitat is an animal welfare consideration;  
 
E.​ Consider the five (5) basic freedoms of animals:  
1.​ Freedom from thirst, hunger, and malnutrition;  
2.​ Freedom from physical discomfort and pain;  
3.​ Freedom from injury and disease;  
4.​ Freedom to express normal behaviors; and  
5.​ Freedom from fear and distress.  
 
F.​ Animals shall be treated with respect and dignity throughout their lives and, when 
necessary, provided with a humane death.  
 
CHAPTER II 
THE ANIMAL WELFARE BUREAU 
 
SECTION 6.  ANIMAL WELFARE BUREAU. 
 
The Bureau is hereby created as a line bureau under the DA. It shall establish  regional,  
provincial,  and  municipal  offices  as appropriate  and  necessary  to  effectively  and  
efficiently carry out the provisions of thiAct.   
 
SECTION 7. POWERS AND FUNCTIONS. 
 
The Bureau shall have the following powers and functions: 
 
A.​
Formulate policies, guidelines, standards, rules, and regulations for the effective 
implementation of this Act;  
 
B.​
Provide minimum standards on the appropriate food,  water,  and  shelter  for  
each  species  of  pets  and animals depending on the age, breed, size, and 
special needs thereof;   


 
C.​
In  consultation  with  the  Land  Transportation Office,  Land  Transportation  
Franchising  Regulatory Board,  Civil  Aeronautics  Board,  the  Maritime  Industry  
Authority,  other  transport  regulating  body  or  agencies, experts, and animal 
welfare groups, set a species-specific standard  for  transportation  of  animals,  
including definitions  for  cruel  confinement  and  restraint  during transport,   
 
appropriate  designs  for  transport  cages  and facilities,  restraint  types,  
provision  of  food  and  water, ventilation,  and  protection  from  extreme  weather 
conditions; 
   
D.​
Establish  an  emergency  animal  response  and rescue  system  to  appropriately  
respond  in  cases  of calamities such as but not limited to floods, earthquakes, 
and other natural disasters;  
 
E.​
Promulgate guidelines for humane slaughter of animals, in consultation with the 
National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS),  
LGUs  and  other  concerned 
government agencies;  
 
F.​
Implement  a  system  for  inspection  of  animal facilities  to  ensure  compliance  
with  animal  welfare standards and regulations;   
 
G.​
Monitor  compliance  of  the  LGUs  with  animal welfare programs, standards, 
rules, and regulations;  
 
H.​
Ensure proper coordination with NGOs, POs, and the  academe  for  the  strict  
implementation  of  rules  and regulations;  
 
I.​
Formulate guidelines and qualifications related to research and testing on animals;  
 
J.​
Issue, suspend, or cancel permits or certifications pursuant to the purposes of this 
Act;  
 
K.​
Levy  and  collect  fees  for  registration, certification, inspection and monitoring 
system, and other fees as the Bureau may deem necessary for the effective 
implementation of this Act;  
 
L.​
Keep  records  and  documents  pertaining  to animal welfare in the country, and 
maintain a surveillance and management information system on animal welfare;  
 
M.​
Create  a  system  and  issue  guidelines  for  the determination or approval of 
applications for certifications, authorizations,  and  permits  necessary  for  the 
establishment,  maintenance,  and  operation  of  animal facilities;  issue  said  
certifications,  authorizations,  and permits; and collect associated fees;  
 


N.​
Call upon any government agency for assistance consistent with its powers, 
duties, and responsibilities for the  purpose  of  ensuring  the  effective  and  
efficient implementation of this Act and the rules and regulations promulgated 
thereunder. Such government agencies shall assist the Bureau when called upon 
for assistance using any available fund in its budget for the purpose; and  
 
O.​
Perform  such  other  powers and functions, as may be prescribed by law or may 
be necessary to achieve the purposes of this Act.  
SECTION 8.  COMPOSITION OF THE BUREAU.  
 
The Bureau shall  be  headed  by  a  Director  and  assisted  by  two  (2) Assistant 
Directors who shall supervise its administrative and technical services. 
 
The Director must possess demonstrated knowledge, training, empathy, compassion, 
and experience in the field of  agriculture,  biology,  animal  husbandry,  veterinary 
science, veterinary medicine, or other similar discipline.  
 
SECTION  9.  PERSONNEL  AND  STAFFING PATTERN. 
   
Notwithstanding  the  provisions  of  existing  laws,  the Secretary  of  the  DA  shall  
require  the  Director  of  the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), as an interim Director of  
the  Bureau,  to  submit  a  recommendation  on  the personnel  and  staffing  pattern  of  
the  Bureau  to  the Department of Budget and Management  (DBM)  and the Civil 
Service Commission (CSC), within  thirty  (30)  days from the effectivity of this Act.  
 
CHAPTER III  
THE ANIMAL WELFARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER  
 
SECTION 10. DEPUTIZATION OF ANIMAL WELFARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS. 
 
The Secretary of the DA shall deputize animal welfare enforcement officers from NGOs, 
citizens’ groups, community organizations, and other volunteers who have undergone 
the necessary training for this purpose.   
 
The PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the NBI, the Philippine Coast 
Guard (PCG), and other law enforcement  agencies  shall  designate  animal  welfare 
enforcement  officers  who  shall  assist  in  the implementation of this Act. In the 
absence of such animal welfare enforcement officers, the law enforcement agencies 
shall continue to implement the law under their general  mandate.   
 
The animal welfare enforcement officers shall have the full authority to seize and rescue 
illegally traded and maltreated animals and arrest violators of this Act, subject to  
existing  laws,  rules,  and  regulations  on  arrest  and detention.  The  absence  of  
designated  animal  welfare enforcement officers in law enforcement agencies shall not 
preclude the enforcement of the provisions of this Act.   
 


The  Bureau  shall  set  guidelines  on  the  training, qualification,  reporting,  and  
coordination  of  deputized animal welfare enforcement officers to cover the criteria  and 
training  requirements for  the deputization of animal welfare enforcement officers; and 
the mechanism for the supervision, monitoring, and reporting of these animal welfare 
enforcement officers.  
 
CHAPTER IV  
BASIC ANIMAL CARE AND HANDLING GUIDELINES  
 
SECTION 11. PROVISION OF FOOD AND WATER. 
 
Any keeper of an  animal  must  provide  it  with,  or  arrange  for  the provision  of  its  
access  to  appropriate  nutritious  food  at least once a day, or at a frequency that is 
typical for the species,  sufficient  to  maintain  good  health;  and,  if appropriate for the 
species, continuous access to potable water that is not frozen, and free of debris, feces, 
algae, and other contaminants.   
 
The  Bureau  shall  provide  guidelines  on  the appropriate  food,  water,  and  shelter  
for  the  animals depending on the kind, nature, and special needs thereof.   
 
SECTION  12.  PROVISION  OF  APPROPRIATE  SHELTER  AND FACILITIES.  
 
Any keeper of an animal must provide it with regular access to a shelter that has a solid 
floor; provides protection  from  the  sun,  rain,  and  wind  sufficient  to maintain good 
health; is regularly cleaned and sanitized; and is large enough for the animal to lie 
down, fully stretch its limbs, turn around freely without any impediment, and stand up, 
including on its hind legs if applicable, allowing the animal to express natural behavior 
and locomotion.   
 
SECTION  13.  PROVISION  OF  VETERINARY  MEDICAL  CARE  FOR SICK, 
COMPROMISED, OR INJURED ANIMALS. 
 
Any keeper of an animal must take all reasonable steps to ensure that its physical,  
health,  and  behavioral  needs  are  met  in accordance  with  good  practice  and  
scientific  knowledge.  
 
This shall include, at minimum, a hands-on examination at least  once  yearly  by  a  
licensed  veterinarian;  prompt treatment  of  any  illness  or  injury  by  a  licensed 
veterinarian; and, when needed, humane euthanasia by a licensed veterinarian.   
 
SECTION. 14. PROVISION OF APPROPRIATE TRANSPORT FACILITY. 
 


Transport  facilities  for  animals  must  be  constructed, provisioned,  and  utilized  as  
to  avoid  causing  injury  or undue suffering to the animals. Transport facilities shall 
include secure cages or restraint systems appropriate for the  
species  
being  
transported,  as  well  as  adequate ventilation to ensure the comfort and safety of the 
animal, appropriate to its nature and size.  
 
SECTION.  15.  PROVISION  OF  OPPORTUNITY  FOR  ANIMALS  TO EXPRESS  
NATURAL  BEHAVIORS  INCLUDING  PLAY,  PROVISION  OF ENRICHMENT 
ACTIVITIES, AND EXERCISE.  
 
Any keeper of an animal  must  provide  it  with  regular  opportunities  to express  
species-specific  natural  behaviors,  for  play  and exercise in an area of sufficient 
space, and for  
stimulation through  environmental  enrichment  activities  to  promote their health and 
welfare. The Bureau, in consultation with stakeholders,  shall  implement  a  timeline  for  
improving farm facilities in compliance with the provisions hereof.  
 
CHAPTER V  
PROHIBITED ACTS  
 
SECTION 16. PROHIBITION ON CRUELTY, MALTREATMENT, ABUSE, AND 
EXPLOITATION. 
 
It shall be unlawful for any person to torture, abuse, exploit, or maltreat any animal; to 
deprive or neglect to provide it with adequate care, sustenance, or shelter; or to cause 
or procure any animal to be tortured, maltreated  or  used  in  research or  experiments  
not expressly authorized by the Bureau. An act of cruelty includes but is not limited to 
the following:   
 
A.​
Beating, harming, injuring, crushing, mutilating, maiming,  disfiguring,  stabbing,  
cutting,  poisoning, drowning, torturing, tormenting, starving, overworking, or 
abusing an animal; or any other act or omission toward an animal, including any 
act of neglect, that causes its pain, suffering, or distress, whether physical or 
psychological;   
 
B.​
Exposing  an  animal  to  inhumane  and  unsafe conditions  and  situations  
including  overcrowded, inappropriate,  unclean,  or  unsanitary  animal  facilities, 
shelters, or transport facilities;   
 
C.​
Killing an animal by way of electrocution or gas chamber, or using any petrol or 
diesel exhaust; and,   
 
D.​
Using an animal in research or experiments not expressly authorized by the 
Bureau.   
 
SECTION 17. PROHIBITION ON NEGLECT. 


 
It shall be unlawful for any keeper of an animal to fail to provide it with basic care in 
accordance with Chapter V of this Act. It shall also be unlawful for any keeper of an 
animal to allow it to roam the  streets  resulting  in  its  impoundment  by  the  local 
impounding authority.   
 
SECTION 18. PROHIBITION ON KILLING OF ANIMALS. 
 
It shall be  unlawful  for  any  person  to  kill  animals  other  than cattle, pigs, goats, 
sheep, poultry, rabbits, carabaos, horses, or other food animals for human consumption. 
The killing of  pets  and  animals  not  declared  as  food  animals  for human 
consumption, or causing or procuring the same to be killed is prohibited except in the 
following instances:   
 
A.​
As part of the religious ritual of an established religion or sect, or a ritual required 
by  
a tribal or ethnic custom of indigenous cultural communities: Provided,  That  
religious  or  tribal  leaders  shall  keep records of such animal slaughter, in 
accordance with relevant guidelines issued on the matter;   
 
B.​
Euthanasia of a pet animal that is afflicted with an  incurable  communicable  
disease  as  determined  and certified by a duly licensed veterinarian;   
 
C.​
Out of necessity to  put  an  end  to  the  misery  suffered  by  an animal, other 
than that provided in the immediately preceding instance,  as  determined  and  
certified  by  a  duly  licensed veterinarian;  
 
D.​
Prevention of an imminent danger to the life or limb of a human being; ​
 
 
E.​
As an animal population control measure, as a last resort duly certified by the 
provincial/city veterinary officer; 
 
F.​
Euthanasia  of  an  animal  by  a  duly  licensed veterinarian  after  the  animal  has  
been  used  in  an authorized  research  or  experiment  in  accordance  with 
Section 26 of this Act;   
 
G.​
Humane slaughter of a farm animal; or  
 
H.​
Any other ground analogous to the foregoing as determined and certified by a duly 
licensed veterinarian.  
In all of the above-mentioned cases, the killing shall at all times be done only through 
euthanasia or other humane procedure  approved  by  the  Bureau.  For  this  purpose, 
humane  procedures  shall  mean  the  use  of  the  most scientific methods available as 
may be determined by the Bureau.  
 
SECTION  19.  PROHIBITION  ON  ANIMAL  FIGHTS. 


 
It  is prohibited  to  subject  animals  to  fights  such  as  but  not limited to dog fighting, 
carabao or bullfighting, or horse fighting not authorized or regulated by law. Any person 
who participates under the circumstances described herein shall be considered as an 
accessory in the commission of animal  fighting  and/or  abetting  in  the  commission  of 
animal cruelty. The prohibition shall include, but not be limited to, pitting one (1) animal 
against another for the purpose of human entertainment, wagering, or sport. In certain 
instances, one (1) of the animals involved may be a “bait animal” used for the ostensible 
purpose of sport or training.   
 
The prohibition on animal fights shall include, but not be limited to, the following:   
 
A.​
Causing,  procuring,  permitting,  encouraging, promoting, organize, sponsor, or 
inciting a fight in which an animal is pitted against another animal for any purpose 
such as dog fighting, horse fighting, and the like;   
 
B.​
Advertising,  promoting,  selling  tickets,  or otherwise assist in an animal fighting 
venture;   
 
C.​
Attending such fights;   
 
D.​
Breeding or training any animal for the purpose of having it fight, engage, or 
otherwise participate in an animal fighting venture;   
 
E.​
Permitting  an  animal  fighting  venture  to  take place  on  any  site,  structure,  
facility,  or  other  premises under the person’s ownership or control;   
 
F.​
Attending, wagering on, or otherwise patronize an animal fighting venture; and,   
 
G.​
Causing or allowing a person who has not yet reached the age of sixteen (16) to 
attend an animal fighting venture.  
 
Animal  fighting  ventures  held  during  festivities, festivals, fiestas, and the like are not 
exempt from this section and are strictly prohibited.   
 
SECTION 20. PROHIBITION ON DOG MEAT TRADING.  
 
It shall be  unlawful  for  any  person  to  engage  in  the  trading, farming, capture, 
transport, sale, or slaughter of dogs and their meat for commercial human consumption. 
The trade of dogs shall include but shall not be limited to buying and/or  selling  of  
dogs,  dog  meats  and  carcasses,  dog farming,  collecting,  and/or  slaughtering  of  
dogs  for commercial consumption.   
 
SECTION 21. PROHIBITION ON ABANDONMENT.  
 


It shall be unlawful for any keeper of an animal, whether temporary or permanent, to 
abandon it. Animal abandonment refers to  leaving  behind  an  animal  alone,  or  
permitting  the animal to be abandoned in circumstances that might cause them harm.   
​
 
SECTION 
22. 
PROHIBITION 
ON 
EAR 
CROPPING, 
TAIL 
DOCKING, 
DE-VOCALIZATION,  AND  DECLAWING.   
 
The  conduct  of  ear cropping,  tail  docking,  devocalization,  declawing,  or  any other  
similar  mutilation  for  aesthetic  purposes  or otherwise  is  prohibited  and  constitutes  
animal  cruelty, except in cases as may be required for the well-being of the animal  as  
determined  by  a  duly  licensed  veterinarian.  
 
When allowed, the same may only be performed by a duly licensed veterinarian.   
 
SECTION  23.  OPERATING  AN  ANIMAL  FACILITY  WITHOUT  A PERMIT  OR  
CERTIFICATE.   
 
Operating  any  facility  without a  necessary  permit  or  certification  from  the  Bureau  
is hereby prohibited.  
 
CHAPTER VI  
ENFORCEMENT  
 
SECTION 24.  IN  GENERAL. 
 
The  Bureau,  either independently or in cooperation with the LGUs, registered NGOs, 
animal welfare enforcement officers, the PNP, and other  concerned  parties,  is  
authorized  to  carry  out enforcement  operations  and  measures  to  ensure 
compliance with the provisions of this Act and to eradicate, stop, and prevent activities 
prohibited hereunder.   
 
SECTION.  25.  VISITORIAL/INSPECTION  POWER. 
 
Owners and/or  operators  of  animal  facilities  shall  be  subject  to regular, as well as 
random, inspections by the Bureau on its  own  or  through  its  deputized  agencies  
and  animal welfare enforcement officers to ensure compliance with the standards set 
forth under this Act and subsequent rules and  regulations.  Fines  and  suspension  or  
revocation  of certificates  as  provided  in  the  implementing  rules  and regulations 
(IRR) of this Act shall be imposed in case of non-compliance.   
 
SECTION 26. APPREHENSION OF OFFENDING PERSON/S. 
 


Any person  who  has  knowledge  or  information  about  the commission of any of the 
prohibited acts  may refer the same to the Bureau and/or its deputized animal welfare 
enforcement officers, and other law enforcement agencies for  appropriate  action.  The  
procedure  on  the  filing  of criminal  charges  shall  be  consistent  with  the  Rules  of 
Criminal Procedure contained in the Rules of Court.   
 
SECTION 27. SEIZURE OF EFFECTS. 
Pending disposition of administrative,  civil,  and  criminal  proceedings,  any animals  or  
item  seized  pursuant  to  arrests  made  for violations of any provision of this Act shall 
be held by a person, facility, or organization authorized by the Bureau, including  the  
LGUs,  law  enforcement  agencies,  or  any Bureau-accredited NGO. Animals seized 
shall be referred to  Bureau-accredited  animal  facilities.  For  wildlife,  the same shall 
be  
referred to the Department of Environment and  Natural  Resources-Biodiversity  
Management  Bureau (DENR-BMB), without prejudice to the latter’s referral or transfer 
of the animals to other suitable facilities.  
 
Any animal seized and/or rescued from any inhumane condition or facility shall  be  
immediately  relieved  from such  condition  or  situation  after the  conduct  of proper 
documentation  such  as  photographing  for  purposes  of preserving evidence.  
 
SECTION 28. RESCUE OF ANIMALS IN AN ENCLOSED FACILITY. 
Any  animal  found  to  have  been  kept,  abandoned, deprived of basic care, 
protection, and food, or subjected to  inhumane  or  cruel  situations  in an  enclosed,  
locked, secured, or sealed facility, whether public or private, may be rescued or relieved 
from the cruel situation or condition, in coordination with the barangay or the law 
enforcement agencies or animal welfare enforcement officers/NGOs. The said  
enclosed  facility  may  be  broken  open,  subject  to diligent efforts shown to contact 
the owner of the facility.  
 
Except  in cases  where  there  is an  imminent  danger  to the life of the animal, diligent 
effort to contact the owner of  the  facility  may  be  dispensed  with  provided  the 
barangay,  the  police,  or  any  licensed  veterinarian  has certified the occurrence of 
such danger.  
 
SECTION 29.  PROTECTION ORDERS. 
 
A protection order is a  relief  granted  under  this  Act  to  prevent  further violations of  
the provisions herein, as well as to protect an  animal  from  further  distress,  fear,  
cruelty,  or discomfort by relieving them or removing them from such inhumane condition 
and granting other necessary reliefs.  
 
The protection order shall be enforced by law enforcement agencies, deputized animal 
welfare enforcement officers, or the Bureau.  
 


The  protection  orders  that  may  be  issued  under this  Act  are  the  barangay  
protection  order  (BPO), temporary  protection  order  (TPO),  and  permanent 
protection order (PPO).  
 
A BPO  is issued by the barangay  office  where  the perpetrator  of  the  prohibited  act  
or  the  complaining individual or entity lives or holds office. The BPO shall be effective 
for fifteen (15) days. A TPO shall  be  issued  by the  court  having  jurisdiction  over  the  
case  filed against  the respondent  which  shall  last  for a  period  of thirty (30) days. A 
PPO shall be issued by the appropriate court having jurisdiction  over  the case filed 
against the respondent which shall remain in effect unless revoked by the  court  after  
the  dismissal  of  the  case  against  the  respondent.   
 
A protection order may be sought by any concerned citizen, deputized animal welfare 
enforcement officer, law enforcement officer, the Bureau, or the LGU through the 
city/provincial  veterinary  officers.  The  protection  under this Act may include any of 
the following reliefs: 
   
A.​ Prohibition of respondent from taking possession of  the  animal/s  that  is  or  was  
in  the  respondent’s possession;   
 
B.​ Prohibition of respondent from taking possession of any animal for the duration of 
the protection order;   
 
C.​ Prohibition  of  respondent  from  purchasing  any live  animal  for  any  purpose  for   
 
the  duration  of  the protection order;   
 
D.​ Directing the respondent to stay away from the person who has caused the 
apprehension of the respondent sought  the  protection  order  and  his  or  her  
family  or household member at a distance of at least fifty (50) meters or as specified 
in the protection order;   
 
E.​ Directing the respondent to stay away from the residence,  school,  place  of  
employment,  or  any  specified place frequented by a particular reporter, as well as 
such reporter’s family or household member/s;   
 
F.​ Granting temporary or permanent custody of the animal to any animal welfare 
enforcement officer or any interested  animal  welfare  group  who  applied  for  the 
custody of said animal/s;   
 
G.​ Restitution for actual costs for the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of the animal/s 
subject of the protection order; and,   
 
H.​ Such  other  forms  of  relief  as  the  court  deems necessary to protect any animal 
as well as any reporter and  the  reporter’s  designated  family  or  household 
member/s.   


 
The  issuance  of  the  BPO  or  the  pendency  of  an application for BPO shall not 
preclude the application for or  the  granting  of  TPO  or  PPO.  Any  violation  of  the 
protection  order  shall  be  deemed  as  multiple  violations under this Act and be 
penalized accordingly.  
 
SECTION  30.  STRATEGIC  LAWSUIT  AGAINST  PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN THE 
ENFORCEMENT OF THIS ACT.  
 
If a person believes  that  a  legal  action  filed  against  the  person constitutes a 
SLAPP, an assertion to that effect may be made as an affirmative defense in the action. 
A special hearing on the SLAPP affirmative defense shall be held by the court at the 
earliest possible juncture. The hearing on the SLAPP affirmative defense shall be 
summary in nature and  shall  be  resolved  within  thirty  (30)  days  after  the summary  
hearing.   
If  the  court  dismisses  the  action pursuant to the SLAPP affirmative defense, it may 
award attorney’s fees and costs of suit, as well as damages under a counterclaim if 
such has been filed. The dismissal shall be with prejudice.   
 
If the court rejects the SLAPP affirmative defense, the evidence adduced during the 
summary hearing shall be treated as evidence of the parties on the merits of the case.  
 
The action shall proceed in accordance with the Rules of Court.   
 
SECTION 31. DISPUTABLE PRESUMPTION. 
 
If, at the time of apprehension,  a  person  lacks  the  appropriate  permit, certification, 
clearance, or authority issued by the Bureau or other pertinent government agencies 
including a duly licensed local government veterinarian, the following shall constitute 
prima facie evidence of the corresponding illegal acts punishable under this Act:   
 
A.​ The possession of a body, carcass, or any part thereof,  meat  of  any  animals  
prohibited  to  be  killed, whether  raw,  cooked  or  processed,  other  than  those 
allowed  under  existing  laws  on  food  animals,  without justification  or  necessary  
permit  or  certificate  from  the Bureau,  LGU  veterinarian,  the  NMIS,  or  local 
slaughterhouses showing the reasons and method used for the killing, as well as the 
purpose for which the carcass is to be used, is a presumption that the animals were 
killed under circumstances prohibited under this Act. When such possession  
includes  the  possession of  any  paraphernalia used for killing, torture, or 
maltreatment such as clubs, knife, cages, restraints, along with live or dead animals 
including any of its products and derivatives, there shall be a disputable presumption 
that the possessor caused the killing, destruction, infliction of injury, or maltreatment, 
as appropriate;   
 


B.​ The  presence  of  fresh  and/or  dried  blood, by-products, or derivatives of the 
animals, with or without the  tools,  equipment,  and/or  paraphernalia  derivatives, 
shall  be  a  disputable  presumption  of  the  killing  and/or destruction of the habitat 
of the animal involved.  
 
CHAPTER VII  
PERMITS, CERTIFICATES, AND AUTHORITY                     
TO COLLECT FEES AND CHARGES  
 
 
 
SECTION  32.  CERTIFICATE  OF  REGISTRATION.  
 
No person, association, partnership, corporation, cooperative, or any government  
agency  or  instrumentality  shall  establish, maintain,  or  operate  any  animal  facility  
or  transport facility,  public  or  private,  without  first  securing  a certificate of 
registration from the Bureau. Any public or private facility shall be considered as 
operating an animal facility, and subject to the guidelines and requirements of this Act, 
when the following circumstances are present:  (a)  When operating and representing 
itself publicly as such; and  (b)  When it has been securing donations or effecting rescue 
under the definition of this Act.   
 
The Bureau shall provide ample and reasonable time for  any  person,  association,  
partnership,  corporation, cooperative, or any government agency or instrumentality to 
register any animal facility, with due consideration of their scale and financial resources.  
 
The Bureau may revoke or cancel the Certificate Of Registration of an animal facility 
that is found to be in violation  of  any  provision  of  this  Act  or  any  associated 
guidelines,  rules,  regulations,  or  standards.  The  facility may  file  with  the  Bureau  a  
request  for  reconsideration within fifteen (15) calendar days from receipt of the notice 
of  revocation  or  cancellation  of  certificate.  The  Bureau shall  resolve  the  same  
with  finality  within  fifteen  (15) calendar days from receipt of the request. 
 
SECTION 33. MAYOR’S PERMIT REQUIREMENT. 
 
No LGU shall issue  a  mayor’s  or  business  permit  to  any  person, association,  
partnership,  corporation,  cooperative, government  agency  or  instrumentality  without  
the presentation of a certificate coming from the Bureau that it has complied with the 
animal welfare standards set forth herein or any rules and regulations hereafter 
enforced.  
 
CHAPTER VIII  
OTHER ANIMAL WELFARE PROVISIONS  
 
SECTION 34. USE OF ANIMALS FOR SHOW, MEDIA, TV, MOVIES, OR 
ENTERTAINMENT. 


 
Promoters/organizers of animal shows, media, or entertainment, shall obtain the 
necessary permit from the Bureau when using animals. The presence of a licensed  
veterinarian  during  the  entire  show,  taping, shooting, or program shall be required. 
The Bureau shall lay  down  requirements  for  this  purpose.  All  other provisions 
regarding proper care and treatment of animals, in general, shall be applicable to 
animals used for show or entertainment,  especially  with  respect  to  transport, holding 
area, allowance for rest, and provision of food and water.   
 
It shall be unlawful for producers and promoters of shows where animals are used to 
import, procure, or use animals  from  sources without  animal welfare  standards and/or  
that  have  been  shown  to  have  maltreated  or exposed  animals  to  inhumane  
conditions  prior  to  their importation. The animal shall be given sufficient food and 
accommodation, as well as adequate rest, for the entire duration of its stay in the 
Philippines.   
 
SECTION 35. USE OF ANIMALS FOR WORK. 
 
Animals used for work, including but not limited to carriage horses, farm animals, and 
the like, must comply with the health and welfare standards set forth herein and as 
issued by the Bureau,  taking  into  consideration  their  nature  and behavior. Working 
animals should not be allowed to work under circumstances where their health and 
safety will be at  risk.  Overworking  of  animals  is  hereby  prohibited.  
 
Water and appropriate shelter protecting the animals from extreme weather conditions 
must be provided.   
 
SECTION 36. GUIDE/SERVICE ANIMALS. 
 
Service animals, such as but not limited to guide/service dogs and police or K9 dogs, 
shall be defined and regulated by the Bureau.  
 
Certification guidelines and standards for the accreditation of service/guide animals 
shall be established by the Bureau in  consultation  with  relevant  agencies  and  
concerned groups.   
 
SECTION 37. USE OF ANIMALS IN RESEARCH AND SCIENTIFIC STUDY. 
 
Animals used in scientific procedures, research, and studies shall be regulated by the 
Bureau, ensuring that animal welfare regulations and guidelines in the use, 
experimentation, testing, and manipulation of animals for said purpose are complied 
with at all times. 
 
SECTION 38.  FARM  ANIMALS.  
 


The  Bureau,  in consultation with the stakeholders, shall set out standards and  
guidelines  in  the  establishment  and  gradual compliance with animal welfare 
standards to improve the living  and  health  condition  of  animals  in  the  farm industry.   
 
SECTION 39. TRANSPORTATION OF ANIMALS. 
 
The following stipulations shall be followed when transporting animals:   
A.​
No person shall transport or cause an animal to be transported in a way likely to 
cause its injury or undue suffering, including but not limited to overcrowding, lack 
of adequate  ventilation  and  appropriate  transport  cages, unnecessary  or  
painful  restraint,  improper  and  unsafe stowing,  transport  during  extreme  
weather  and  other similar conditions, as well as failure to adequately provide food 
and water for the transported animals.   
 
B.​
Any person transporting an animal in connection with an economic activity shall:  
 
1.​
Ensure  that  such  animal  is  fit  to  travel  and checked regularly at least 
once every six (6) hours during the voyage;  
2.​
Protect such animals from extreme temperatures, with journeys limited as to 
the duration prescribed by the Bureau depending on the species, nature, and 
needs of the transported animal;  
3.​
Ensure  that  vehicle  loading  and  unloading facilities are constructed and 
maintained to avoid injury and suffering;  
4.​
Provide  sufficient  floor  space  and  height allowance to allow the animal to 
lie down, stand up, fully stretch  its  limbs,  and  turn  around  freely  without  
any  impediment;   
5.​
After each eight (8) hour travel period, allow the animal to rest off the vehicle 
for at least twenty-four (24) hours, providing it with sufficient water and food; 
and  
6.​
Prioritize/use  the  route  with  the  shortest distance.  
For purposes of this section, transport “in connection with an economic activity” 
includes but is not limited to journeys undertaken by commercial haulers and 
animal breeders, farmers, and horse racers. Such transport is not limited to  one 
where an immediate exchange of money, goods, or services takes place and 
includes, in particular, transport that  directly  or  indirectly  involves  or  aims  at 
financial gain.   
 
C.​
No  person  shall  transport  an  animal  younger than  eight  (8)  weeks  old,  a  
pregnant  female  who  has passed  through  ninety  percent  (90%)  of  her  
expected gestational period, a female who has given birth in the past seven (7) 
days, or a sick or injured animal, unless such transport is to or from a veterinary 
practice or clinic;   
 
D.​
Any violation of this section shall be penalized even if the transporter has a permit 
to transport from the Bureau; and   
 


E.​
Any  vehicle  used  in  the  transportation  or importation/exportation  of  animals  
in  violation  of  the provisions  of  this  Act  shall  be  deemed  an  instrument 
employed  in  the  commission  of  the  crime  and  shall  be ordered  confiscated  
and  forfeited  in  favor  of  the government upon conviction of the accused.   
 
SECTION 40. IMPORT AND EXPORT OF LIVE ANIMALS. 
 
For the import and/or export of live animals, compliance with the provisions of this Act, 
including the provision of holding facilities  must  be  ensured.  Importation  of  animals  
from countries  of  extremely  cold  climates  shall  be  prohibited unless specifically 
authorized on a case-to-case basis by the Bureau  upon  submission  of  an  approved  
care  and sustainability program or plan.   
 
SECTION 41. SPAY AND NEUTER AND VACCINATION OF STRAY CATS AND 
DOGS. 
The LGUs shall implement a mandatory spay and neuter for stray dogs and cats to 
control animal strays and rabies. The Bureau may come up with other relevant  and  
necessary  dog/cat  population  control programs. Pest control companies shall not be 
allowed to capture  and  dispose  of  cats  and/or  dogs.  To  ensure commitment  by  
the  LGUs,  the  implementation  of  this section  shall  be  part  of  their  Seal  of  Good  
Local Governance (SGLG) assessment system.  
 
SECTION 42. COMMUNICATION, EDUCATION, AND OTHER PUBLIC AWARENESS 
CAMPAIGNS.  
 
The Bureau, together with other agencies,  NGOs,  and  stakeholders,  shall  implement 
programs  towards  increasing  animal  welfare  awareness through  education  and  
various  information  awareness activities and programs.  
 
CHAPTER IX  
PENALTIES  
 
SECTION 43. PROHIBITED ACTS AND PENALTIES. 
 
In addition to the other provisions of this Act, the following acts are prohibited and shall 
have the corresponding penalties: 
 
A.​
Any person who subjects any animal to cruelty, torture, maltreatment, or any of the 
prohibited acts herein shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment ranging 
from one (1) year and six (6) months to three (3) years and a fine of not less than 
Thirty Thousand Pesos (P30,000.00) but  not  more  than  One  Hundred  
Thousand  Pesos (P100,000.00);   
 


B.​
Abandonment of animals shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment ranging 
from six (6) months to one (1) year, and a fine not exceeding Ten Thousand Pesos 
(P10,000.00). If the animal is left in circumstances likely to cause  the  animal  
unnecessary  suffering  or  if  the abandonment results in the death or injury of the 
animal, the  person  liable  shall  suffer  the  maximum  penalty  of imprisonment of 
one (1) year and a fine of Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000.00);   
 
C.​
Operating  an  animal  facility,  including  an animal transport facility, without the 
required permit shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment ranging from six 
(6) months to one (1) year and a fine not exceeding Ten Thousand Pesos 
(P10,000.00). The penalties imposed herein are without prejudice to the 
administrative liability of the owner/operator;   
 
D.​
Failure  to  obtain  the  required  permits  to  use animals for show, entrainment, or 
any form of media, or for research  and/or  scientific  education  experiment  shall  
be punished with a penalty of imprisonment ranging from six (6) months to one (1) 
year and six (6) months and a fine not exceeding Thirty Thousand Pesos 
(P30,000.00);  
 
E.​
If  the  violation  is  committed  by  a  juridical person, the offender responsible 
therefor shall be punished with  the  corresponding  penalty  of  imprisonment.  If  
the violation  is  committed  by  an  alien,  he/she  shall  be immediately deported 
after the service of sentence without any further proceeding;   
 
F.​
The penalty of imprisonment ranging from two (2) years and one (1) day to three 
(3) years and a fine not exceeding Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Pesos 
(P250,000.00), shall be imposed if the offense involves any of the following 
circumstances:   
 
1.​
Committed by a syndicate involving a group of three (3) or more individuals;   
2.​
Committed by an offender who makes a business out of cruelty to animals;   
3.​
Committed by a public officer or employee; or   
4.​
Where at least three (3) animals are involved;  
  
G.​
In any of the foregoing situations, the offender shall suffer subsidiary imprisonment 
in case of insolvency and the inability to pay fine;   
H.​
The  maximum  applicable  penalty  shall  be imposed upon a person who, at the 
time of his/her trial for a violation of this Act, has been previously convicted by final 
judgment for the same offense or for another violation of this Act;   
 


I.​
Any person found guilty of dog meat trading shall be punished with a penalty of 
imprisonment ranging from one (1) year to four (4) years and a fine not exceeding 
Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000.00) per dog;   
 
J.​
Any violation of any other provision of this Act shall be punished with a penalty of 
imprisonment ranging from  three  (3)  months  to  one  (1)  year  and  a  fine  not 
exceeding Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000.00);  ​  
 
K.​
The  liability  of  any  person  herein  is  without prejudice  to  his/her  criminal,  
civil,  or  administrative liability for any other offense under another law;   
 
L.​
Any person who has been habitually convicted of a  violation  of  this  Act  shall  be  
permanently  
and perpetually disqualified from being issued any permit or 
certificate to operate any animal facility, including owning or possessing an 
animal/pet;   
 
M.​
The court may, in its discretion, require that the imposed penalties of imprisonment 
not exceeding one (1) year be served by the defendant by rendering community 
service  under such  terms  and  conditions  that  the  court may determine 
depending on the gravity of the offense.  
Under this circumstance, the court shall prepare an order imposing  the  penalty  of  
community  service  in  lieu  of imprisonment,  specifying  the  required  number  of  
hours and the period for its completion. Community service to be rendered must be 
related to assistance to animals.  
 
CHAPTER X  
APPROPRIATION  
 
SECTION  44.  APPROPRIATION. 
 
The  initial  funding  to establish  the  Bureau  shall  be  taken  from  the  general 
appropriations of the DA to the extent of the amount of Fifty Million Pesos 
(P50,000,000.00) for the first year.   
 
The  subsequent  funding  shall  be  included  in  the General  Appropriation  Act  which  
shall  include  all necessary amounts to achieve the purposes of this Act and to ensure 
the proper functioning of the Bureau, including the enforcement of this Act.  
 
 
CHAPTER XI  
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS  
 
SECTION 45.  ANIMAL  WELFARE  FUND.  
 


There  is  hereby established an Animal Welfare Fund to be administered by the Bureau 
as a special account in the National Treasury.  
 
It  shall  finance  the  programs  of  the  Bureau  on  animal welfare  and  enforcement  
process.  The  Fund  shall  be derived  from  fines  imposed  and  damages  awarded 
pursuant to violations of this Act; fees charged for permits, registrations,  
or  
authorizations;  administrative  fees;  or donations,  endowments,  or  grants  in  the  
form  of contributions. Contributions to the fund shall be exempt from  donor’s  tax  and  
all  other  taxes,  charges,  or  fees imposed by the government.   
 
SECTION 46. MANDATORY ANIMAL WELFARE EDUCATION. 
 
It shall be mandatory for all primary and secondary schools, public and private, to 
integrate in their curriculum and have activities on the following:   
A.​ The promotion and protection of animal welfare;   
B.​ Responsible pet ownership; and   
C.​ Concept of animal welfare.  
SECTION 47.  EMERGENCY  RESPONSE.  
 
The  Bureau  shall create and implement, in collaboration with the LGUs and animal 
welfare NGOs, an inter-agency emergency response program  for  rescuing  and  caring  
for  animals  in  times of  calamity  including  but  not  limited  to  floods  and 
earthquakes.  Such  program  shall  include  the establishment and placing of animals in 
identified animal evacuation centers, temporary shelters, and/or recognized rescue 
centers, whether public or private, until the same is claimed  by  their  rightful  owners  
or  can  be  re-homed appropriately.   
 
The  Bureau,  through  the  LGUs,  shall  likewise establish an emergency response 
system to rescue and/or refer  animals  that  are  victims  of  abuse,  cruelty,  and 
maltreatment to recognized animal shelters or facilities, whether public or private.  
​
 
SECTION 48.  CUSTODY  OF  RESCUED  ANIMALS.  
 
Animal/s seized  or  rescued  from  violators  of  this  Act  and  its guidelines, rules, and 
regulations may be held in custody and  referred  to  local  government  pound  or  
shelter,  or Bureau-accredited animal facilities pending disposition of administrative, 
civil, or criminal proceedings. For wildlife, the same shall be referred to the DENR-BMB 
or its nearest regional offices.   
 
SECTION 49. ROLE  OF  LGUS  AND  OTHER  GOVERNMENT AGENCIES. 
 


The  LGUs  shall  support  the  Bureau  in  the implementation of this Act by issuing 
necessary animal welfare  ordinances  and  implementing  animal  welfare programs in 
coordination with the Bureau, including the provision  of  veterinary  access  and  the  
conduct  of mandatory  spay  and  neutering  to  control  dog  and  cat populations. 
Other government agencies handling animals shall  adopt  and  implement  animal  
welfare  standards, policies,  rules,  and  regulations  in  their  operations consistent with 
this Act.   
 
Barangays  shall  create  their  own  Animal  Welfare Task  Force  and  adopt  programs  
consistent  with  the provisions of this Act and its IRR.  
 
SECTION 50. STATUTORY CONSTRUCTION. 
 
This Act shall be liberally construed in favor of the promotion and protection of animal 
welfare.   
 
SECTION 51. TRANSITION PERIOD. 
 
During the transition period,  within  one  (1)  year  from  effectivity  hereof,  the existing  
BAI  shall  remain  to  be  the  supervisory  and regulatory  authority  in  the  
implementation  of  the provisions of this Act and shall manage, supervise turnover, and 
monitor the establishment of the Bureau until the same becomes operational. It shall 
ensure including the assignment and appointment of necessary personnel and staff 
during the transition.   
 
SECTION 52.  SEPARABILITY  CLAUSE.  
 
If  any  portion  or provision of this Act is declared unconstitutional or invalid, the other 
portions or provisions not affected shall continue to be in full force and effect.   
 
SECTION 53. REPEALING CLAUSE. 
 
All laws, decrees, rules, and regulations inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are 
hereby repealed or amended accordingly.   
 
SECTION 54. EFFECTIVITY. 
 
This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or 
two (2) newspapers of general circulation.  
 
Approved,