NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
)
)
)
SENATE
ITP
S. No.
^ %975
ri'
(in substitution of Senate Bill Nos. 2054 and 2458)
Prepare and submitted jointly by the Committees on Agriculture, Food and Agrarian 
Reform; Civil Service, Government Reorganization and Professional Regulation; Ways 
and Means; and Finance with Senators Tulfo, Poe, Binay, Villanueva, and C. Villar as
authors thereof
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
1 
Section. 1. Title. -This Act shall be known as the 'The Revised Animal Welfare
2 
Act".
3 
Sec. 2. Declaration of Policy. - It is the State's policy to protect life, liberty,
4 
and property which includes the promotion of animal welfare by establishing a system
5 
of supervision and regulation to ensure humane treatment in all aspects of the
6 
keeping, maintaining, handling, transporting, breeding, training, treating, and use of
7 
animals. Good animal welfare involves adherence to the five basic freedoms of animals
8 
namely:
9 
(1) Freedom from thirst, hunger, and malnutrition;
10 
(2) Freedom from physical discomfort and pain;
11 
(3) Freedom from injury and disease;
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1 
(4) Freedom to express normal behaviors; and
2 
(5) Freedom from fear and distress.
3 
Sec. 3. Coverage, - This Act shall apply to all programs, activities, and
4 
undertakings of individuals, corporations, associations, organizations, or entities,
5 
including but not limited to animal producers, small-hold farmers, private entities, or
6 
government agencies, that:
7 
a. Handle, breed, train, keep, care for, transport, exhibit, display, use,
8 
or otherwise interact with any animals, whether as pets, livestock, wildlife,
9 
or animals used for education, entertainment, or show; or
10 
b. Own, operate, or maintain any facility that interacts with animals.
11 
Sec. 4. Objectives. - The State shall promote the welfare of all animals by
12 
establishing rules, regulations, guidelines, and standards and endeavor to achieve the fol lowi ng
13 
objectives:
14 
a. To protect and promote animal welfare by providing rules, regulations,
15 
guidelines, and standards in the establishment and operation of animal
16 
facilities, transportation, and the like;
17 
b. To establish welfare guidelines and standards in the use, treating, breeding,
18 
maintaining, keeping, and training of all animals;
19 
c. To protect and promote animal health through the maintenance of adequate,
20 
clean, and sanitary facilities used in the keeping, breeding, treating, and
21 
training of animals;
22 
d. To promote responsible pet ownership through education and information
23 
dissemination;
24 
e. To regulate the operation and maintenance of animal facilities or any
25 
establishment where animals are kept for whatever reason or purpose;
26 
f. To formulate rules and regulations that will ensure the promotion of animal
27 
welfare in the establishment, maintenance, and operation of any pet shop,
28 
kennel, national or local government pound, shelter, slaughterhouse, veterinary
29 
clinic, veterinary hospital, stockyard, corral, stud farm, or stock farm or zoo for
30 
the breeding, raising, treatment, sale or trading, or training of animals;


1 
g. To establish inter-agency, multi-sectoral, and local government cooperation for
2 
the promotion and protection of animal welfare;
3 
h. To create an agency and establish an organizational structure that
4 
will effectively implement the provisions of this Act and all laws relevant to it;
5 
i. To promote public awareness and concern for caring for animals and
6 
their welfare.
7 
Sec. 5. Animal Welfare Principles. - Animal welfare standards, practices,
8 
policies, and regulations must be based on the following principles:
9 
a. Decisions regarding animal care, use, and welfare shall be made by
10 
Balancing scientific knowledge and professional judgment with consideration
11 
of ethical and societal values;
12 
b. Animals must be provided water, food, proper handling, health care, and
13 
an environment appropriate to their care and use, with thoughtful
14 
consideration for their species-typical biology and behavior;
15 
c. Animals should be cared for in ways that minimize fear, pain, stress,
16 
and suffering; Conservation and management of animal populations should
17 
be humane, socially responsible, and scientifically prudent;
18 
d. Protection of animal habitat is an animal welfare consideration;
19 
e. Consider the five basic freedoms of animals:
20 
(1) Freedom from thirst, hunger, and malnutrition;
21 
(2) Freedom from physical discomfort and pain;
22 
(3) Freedom from injury and disease;
23 
(4) Freedom to conform to essential behavioral patterns; and
24 
(5) Freedom from fear and distress.
25 
f. Animals shall be treated with respect and dignity throughout their lives
26 
and, when necessary, provided with a humane death.
27 
Sec. 6. Definitions. -As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean:
28 
(1) Animals refer to domesticated vertebrate and invertebrate species under the
29 
control of man, which may be food-producing, companion, laborers, aquatic, or
30 
laboratory. The term excludes humans;
3


1 
(2) Animal Welfare \iex\a\r\s to the physical and psychological well-being of animals.
2 
It includes, but is not limited to, the avoidance of abuse, maltreatment, cruelty,
3 
and exploitation of animals by humans by maintaining appropriate standards
4 
of accommodation, feeding, and general care, the prevention and treatment
5 
of disease, and the assurance of freedom from fear, distress, harassment and
6 
unnecessary discomfort and pain and allowing animals to express natural behavior;
7 
(3) Animal Facility refers to any facility, structure, or premises used for the purpose
8 
of keeping, caring, breeding, rearing, holding, gaming, training, trading,
9 
treating, or exhibiting animals, including but not limited to farms, zoos, aviaries,
10 
apiaries, kennels, race tracks, cockpits, pet shops, shelter, national or local
11 
government pounds, animal rescue centers, airports, and seaports quarantine
12 
stations, animal holding facilities, stables, livestock markets, stockyards, corrals,
13 
stud farms, stock farms, slaughterhouses, aquaria, laboratories, veterinary clinics,
14 
and veterinary hospitals;
15 
(4) Animal fighting venture refers to any event, show, exhibition, program, or
16 
other activity that involves a fight conducted or to be conducted between
17 
two or more animals for purposes 
of sport, wagering, amusement, or
18 
entertainment;
19 
(5) Animal Welfare Enforcement Officer refers to the Philippine National Police,
20 
National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies, citizens'
21 
groups, community organizations, and other volunteer members of NGOs, and
22 
Peoples organizations designated as such enforcement officers by the Secretary of
23 
Agriculture;
24 
(6) Bureau refers to the Animal Welfare Bureau;
25 
(7) CaptiveAnimaisrefers to animals that are confined for educational or recreational
26 
purposes in places such as but not limited to zoos, sanctuaries, rescue
27 
centers, sea or ocean facility, and the like;
28 
(8) Department refers to the Department of Agriculture;
29 
(9) Director refers to the individual in charge of the Animal Welfare Bureau;
30 
(10) Euthanasia refers to the Bureau approved process or method of painless death
4


1 
of animals;
2 
(11) Keeper vef&cs to any person who owns, possesses, or has control or custody over
3 
an animal;
4 
(12) Local Government Unit (LGU) refers to the Province, City, or Municipalities;
5 
(13) Pets refers to documented or otherwise, or domestic animals intended for
6 
companionship, therapy, seeing and hearing guides, recreation and value
7 
formation, and breeding such 
as but not limited to dogs, 
cats, fishes, 
rabbits,
8 
rodents, reptiles, and birds 
that are either acquired locally 
or through
9 
importation under government rules and regulations;
10 
(14) Person refers to any individual, corporation, company, business, enterprise,
11 
association, partnership, syndicate, trust, or other entity;
12 
(15) Reporter refers to any person who reports a suspected violation of any provision
13 
of this Act to the proper authorities;
14 
(16) Secretary refers to the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture;
15 
(17) Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) refers to a legal action
16 
filed to harass, vex, exert undue pressure, or stifle any legal recourse that any
17 
person, institution, or the government has taken or may take in the enforcement
18 
of this Act;
19 
(18) Transport Facility refers to any transportation public or private, whether air,
20 
water, or land including tricycles and the like used to transport animals to a
21 
particular destination;
22 
(19) Wild animal refers to any individual of a species that is not normally
23 
domesticated in the Philippines, including those in captivity under the control of
24 
a person.
25 
Furthermore, the Bureau may define such other terms as may be used in the
26 
implementation of this Act;
27 
CHAPTER II
28 
THE ANIMAL WELFARE BUREAU


1 
Sec. 7. Animal Welfare Bureau - is hereby created as a line bureau under
2 
the Department of Agriculture. It shall establish regional, provincial and municipal offices
3 
as may be appropriate and necessary to carry out effectively and efficiently the provisions
4 
of this Act.
5 
Sec. 8. Functions of the Bureau. - As a line bureau, it shall have the following
6 
functions:
7
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9
10
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12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20 
21
22
23
24
25
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27
28
29
30
(1) Formulate policies, guidelines, standards, rules, and regulations for the 
effective implementation of this Act;
(2) Provide minimum standards on the appropriate food, water, and shelter for 
each species of pet and animals depending on the age, breed, size, and special 
needs thereof;
(3) In consultation with the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation 
Franchising Regulatory Board, Civil Aeronautics Board, the Maritime Industry, 
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;
(4) 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;
(5) Promulgate guidelines for humane slaughter of animals, in consultation with 
the National Meat Inspection Service, local government units and other 
concerned government agencies;
(6) Implement a system for inspection of animal facilities to ensure compliance 
with animal welfare standards and regulations;
(7) Monitor compliance of the local government units with animal welfare 
programs, standards, rules and regulations;
(8) Ensure proper coordination with non-government organizations, people's 
organizations and academe for the strict implementation of the rules and


regulations issued;
2 
(9) Formulate guidelines and qualifications related to research and testing on
3 
animals;
4 
(10) To issue, suspend, cancel permits or certifications pursuant to the purposes
5 
of this Act;
6 
(11) To levy and collect fees for registration, certification, inspection and
7 
monitoring system and other fees as the Bureau may deem necessary for the
8 
effective implementation of this Act;
9 
(12) Keep records and documents pertaining to animal welfare in the country as
10 
well as the maintenance of surveillance and management information system
11 
on animal welfare;
12 
(13) Create a system and guidelines for the determination or approval of
13 
applications of certifications, authorizations, and permits necessary for the
14 
establishment, maintenance, and operation of animal facilities, as well as to
15 
issue said certifications, authorizations, and permits and to collect associated
16 
fees;
17 
(14) To call upon any government agencies for assistance consistent with its
18 
powers, duties, and responsibilities for the purpose of ensuring the effective
19 
and efficient implementation of this Act and the rules and regulations
20 
promulgated thereunder, and it shall be the duty of such government agencies
21 
to assist the Bureau when called upon for assistance using any available fund
22 
in its budget for the purpose; and
23 
(15) Perform such other duties and responsibilities which are necessarily to
24 
achieve the purposes of this Act.
25 
Sec. 9. Composition of the Bureau. - As a line bureau, the Bureau shall be
26 
headed by a Director and assisted by two (2) Assistant Directors who shall supervise the
27 
administrative and technical services of the Bureau.
28 
The Director must possess demonstrated knowledge, training, empathy,
29 
compassion, and experience in the field of agriculture, biology, animal husbandry,
30 
veterinary science, veterinary medicine or other similar discipline.
7


1 
Sec. 10. Personnel and Staffing Pattern. - Notwithstanding the provisions of
2 
existing laws, the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture shall require the Director of
3 
the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), as an interim Director of the Bureau to submit within thirty
4 
(30) days from the effectivity of this Act their recommendation on the personnel and staffing
5 
pattern of the Bureau and to submit the same to the Department of Budget and Management
6 
and the Civil Service Commission.
7 
CHAPTER III
8 
THE ANIMAL WELFARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
9 
Sec. 11. Deputization of Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers. — The
10 
Secretary of the Department of Agriculture shall deputize animal welfare enforcement
11 
officers from non-government organizations, citizens' groups, community organizations,
12 
and other volunteers who have undergone the necessary training for this purpose.
13 
The Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP),
14 
the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and other
15 
law enforcement agencies shall designate animal welfare enforcement officers who shall
16 
assist in the implementation of this Act. In the absence of such enforcement officers, the
17 
said law enforcement officers shall continue to implement the law under their general
18 
mandate.
19 
The animal welfare enforcement officers shall have the full authority to seize and
20 
rescue illegally traded and maltreated animals and to arrest violators of this Act subject
21 
to existing laws, rules, and regulations on arrest and detention. Regardless of the absence
22 
of designated animal welfare enforcement officers in law enforcement, the same shall not
23 
preclude them from the enforcement of the provisions of this Act.
24 
The Bureau shall set guidelines in the training, qualification, reporting, and
25 
coordination of deputized animal welfare enforcement officers to cover the following:
26 
1. Guidelines on the criteria and training requirements for the deputization
27 
of animal welfare enforcement officers; and
28 
2. The mechanism for the supervision, monitoring, and reporting of these
29 
enforcement officers.
30 
CHAPTER IV
BASIC ANIMAL CARE AND HANDLING GUIDELINES
31 
Sec. 12. Provision of Food and Water. - Any keeper of an animal must provide
32 
the animal with, or arrange to have the animal provided with, access to appropriate
8


1 
nutritious food at least once a day, or at a frequency that is typical for the species,
2 
sufficient to maintain good health; and, if appropriate for the species, continuous access
3 
to potable water that Is not frozen, and is free of debris, feces, algae, and other
4 
contaminants.
5 
The Bureau shall provide guidelines on the appropriate food, water, and shelter
6 
for the animals depending on the kind, nature, and special needs thereof.
7 
Sec. 13. Provision of appropriate Sheiter and Faciiities. - Any keeper of an
8 
animal must provide such animal with regular access to a shelter that has a solid floor;
9 
provides protection from the sun, rain, and wind sufficient to maintain good health; is
10 
regularly cleaned and sanitized; and is large enough for the animal to lie down, fully
11 
stretch its limbs, turn around freely without any impediment, and stand up, including on
12 
Its hind legs if applicable, allowing the animal to express natural behavior and locomotion.
13 
Sec. 14. Provision of Veterinary Medicai Care for Sick, Compromised, or
14 
Injured Animais. - Any keeper of an animal must take all reasonable steps to ensure
15 
that the physical, health, and behavioral needs of the animals are met in accordance with
16 
good practice and scientific knowledge. This shall include, at minimum, a hands-on
17 
examination at least once yearly by a licensed veterinarian; prompt treatment of any
18 
illness or Injury by a licensed veterinarian; and, where needed, humane euthanasia by a
19 
licensed veterinarian.
20 
Sec. 15. Provision of Appropriate Transport Faciiity. - T ransport facilities for
21 
animals must be constructed, provisioned, and utilized in such a way as to avoid causing
22 
injury or undue suffering to the animals. Transport facilities shall include secure cages or
23 
restraint systems appropriate for the species being transported, as well as adequate
24 
ventilation to ensure the comfort and safety of the animal appropriate to its nature and
25 
size.
26 
Sec. 16. Provision of Opportunity for Animals to Express Natural
27 
Behaviors Including Play, Provision of Enrichment Activities, and Exercise. -
28 
Any keeper of an animal must provide such animal regular opportunities to express
29 
species-specific natural behaviors, for play and exercise in an area of sufficient space,
30 
and for stimulation through environmental enrichment activities to promote their health
31 
and welfare. The Bureau in consultation with stakeholders shall implement a timeline for
32 
improving farm facilities to comply with the provisions hereof.
33
CHAPTER V
9


PROHIBITED ACTS
2 
Sec. 17. Prohibition on Crueity, Maitreabnent, Abuse, and Expioitation.
3 
— It shall be unlawful for any person to torture, abuse, exploit any animal, to neglect to
4 
provide adequate care, sustenance, or shelter, or maltreat any animals, cause or procure
5 
to be tortured, or deprive such animals of adequate care sustenance or shelter, or
6 
maltreat or use the same in research or experiments not expressly authorized by the
7 
Bureau.
8 
An act of cruelty includes but is not limited to the following:
9 
(a) Beating, harming, injuring, crushing, mutilating, maiming, disfiguring,
10 
stabbing, cutting, px)isoning, drowning, torturing, tormenting, starving,
11 
overworking, or abusing an animal, or any other act or omission toward an
12 
animal, including any act of neglect, causing the animal pain, suffering, or
13 
distress, whether physical or psychological;
14 
(b) Exposing an animal to inhumane and unsafe conditions and situations
15 
including overcrowded, inappropriate, unclean, or unsanitary animal
16 
facilities, shelters, or transport facilities;
17 
(c) Killing an animal by way of electrocution or gas chamber or using any
18 
petrol or diesel exhaust;
19 
(d) Using an animal in research or experiments not expressly authorized by
20 
the Bureau; and
21 
(e) Ovenworking an animal.
22 
Sec. 18. Prohibition on Negiect - It shall be unlawful for any keeper of an
23 
animal to fail to provide such animal with basic care in accordance with Chapter V of this
24 
Act. It shall also be unlawful for any keeper of an animal to allow such animal to roam
25 
the streets resulting in its impoundment by the local impounding authority.
26 
Sec. 19. Prohibition on Kiiiing of Animais. - It shall be unlawful for any
27 
person to kill any animals other than cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, poultry, rabbits, carabaos,
28 
horses, or other food animals for human consumption. The killing of pets and animals not
29 
declared as food animals for human consumption, or cause or procuring the same to be
30 
killed is prohibited except in the following instances:
10


1 
1. When it is done as part of the religious rituals of an established religion or
2 
sect or a ritual required by a tribal or ethnic custom of indigenous cultural
3 
communities; however, religious or tribal leaders shall keep records in
4 
accordance with relevant guidelines issued on the matter;
5 
2. Euthanasia of a pet animal that is afflicted with an incurable communicable
6 
disease as determined and certified by a duly licensed veterinarian;
7 
3. When euthanasia of an animal is deemed necessary to put an end to the
8 
misery suffered by the animal as determined and certified by a duly licensed
9 
veterinarian;
10 
4. When it is done to prevent imminent danger to the life or limb of a human
11 
being;
12 
5. When done for the purpose of animal population control as a last resort duly
13 
certified by the Provincial/City Veterinary Officer;
14 
6. Euthanasia of an animal by a duly licensed veterinarian after the animal has
15 
been used in an authorized research or experiment in accordance with Section
16 
26;
17 
7. Humane slaughter of a farm animal; or
18 
8. Any other ground analogous to the foregoing as determined and certified by
19 
a duly licensed veterinarian. In all of the above-mentioned cases, the killing shall
20 
at all times be done only through euthanasia or other humane procedures
21 
approved by the Animal Welfare Bureau. For this purpose, humane procedures
22 
shall mean the use of the most scientific methods available as may be
23 
determined by the Bureau.
24 
Sec. 20. Prohibition on Animai Fights. -It is prohibited to subject animals
25 
to fights such as but not limited to dog fighting, carabao or bullfighting or horse fighting,
26 
and the like, not authorized or regulated by law. Any person who participates under the
27 
circumstances as described herein shall be considered as an accessory in the commission
28 
of animal fighting and/or abetting in the commission of animal cruelty. It shall include but
29 
not be limited to pitting one animal with another for the purpose of human entertainment.
11


1 
wagering, or sport. In certain instances, one of the animals involved may be a "bait
2 
animal" used for the ostensible purpose of sport or training.
3 
The prohibition on animal fights shall include but not be limited to the following:
4 
(a) Cause, procure, permit, encourage, promote, organize, sponsor, or
5 
incite a fight in which an animal is pitted against another animal for any
6 
purposes such as dog fighting and horse fighting and the like;
7 
(b) Advertise, promote, sell tickets, or otherwise assist in an animal fighting
8 
venture;
9 
(c) Attend such a fight;
10 
(d) Breed or train any animal for the purpose of having it fight, engage, or
11 
otherwise participate in an animal fighting venture;
12 
(e) Permit an animal fighting venture to take place on any site, structure,
13 
facility, or other premises under the person's ownership or control;
14 
(f) Attend, wager on, or otherwise patronize an animal fighting venture; and
15 
(g) Cause or allow a person who has not yet reached the age of 16 to attend
16 
an animal fighting venture.
17 
Animal fighting ventures held during festivities, festivals, fiestas, and the like are
18 
not exempt from this Section and are strictly prohibited.
19 
Sec. 21. Prohibition on Dog Meat Trading. - It shall be unlawful for any
20 
person to engage in the trade of dogs for their meat which includes the farming or
21 
capture, transport, sale, or slaughter of dogs and their meat for commercial human
22 
consumption. The trade of dogs shall include but shall not be limited to buying and/or
23 
selling of dogs, dog meats and carcasses, dog farming, collecting, and/or slaughtering
24 
of dogs for commercial consumption.
25 
Sec. 22. Prohibition on Abandonment. - It shall be unlawful for any keeper
26 
of an animal, whether temporary or permanent, to abandon such animal. Animal
27 
abandonment refers to leaving behind an animal alone or permitting the animal to be
28 
abandoned in circumstances that might cause them harm.
29 
Sec. 23. Prohibition on Ear Cropping/ Taii docking, De-vocaiization, and
30 
Deciawing. - The conduct of ear cropping, tail docking, devocalization, declawing, or
12


1 
any other similar mutilation is prohibited as constituting animal cruelty except in cases
2 
as may be required for the well-being of the animal as determined by a duly licensed
3 
veterinarian and not for aesthetic purposes. When allowed, the same may only be
4 
performed by a duly licensed veterinarian.
5 
Sec. 24. Operating an Animal Facility without a Permit or Certificate, -
6 
Operating any facility without a necessary permit or certification from the Bureau is
7 
hereby prohibited.
8 
CHAPTER VI
9 
ENFORCEMENT
10 
Sec. 25. In General. - The Bureau, either independently, or in cooperation with
11 
LGUs, the registered NGOs, Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers, the Philippine National
12 
Police, and other concerned parties, is authorized to carry out enforcement operations
13 
and measures to ensure compliance with the provisions of this Act and to eradicate, stop
14 
and prevent activities prohibited under this Act.
15 
Sec. 26. Visitoriai/Inspection Power. - Owners and/or operators of animal
16 
facilities shall be subjected to regular, as well as random Inspections by the Bureau on
17 
its own or through its deputized agencies and Enforcement Officers to ensure compliance
18 
with the standards set forth by this Act and subsequent rules and regulations. Fines and
19 
suspension or revocation of certificates as provided in the implementing rules and
20 
regulations of this Act shall be imposed in case of non-compliance.
21 
Sec. 27. Apprehension of Offending Person/s. - Any person who has
22 
knowledge or Information about the commission of any of the prohibited acts heretofore
23 
cited may refer the same to the law enforcement authority or to the Animal Welfare
24 
Bureau and/or its deputized animal welfare enforcement officers, and other law
25 
enforcement agencies for appropriate action. The procedure in the filing of criminal
26 
charges shall be as prescribed by the rules of criminal procedure contained in the Rules
27 
of Court.
28 
Sec. 28. Seizure of Effects. -Any items seized including animals, pursuant to
29 
arrests made for violation of any provision of this Act shall be held by any person, facility,
30 
or organization, authorized by the Bureau, including the LGUs, the law enforcement
31 
agencies or any Bureau accredited NGO pending disposition of administrative, civil and
32 
criminal proceedings. Animals seized shall be referred to Bureau-accredited animal
13


1 
facilities. For wildlife, the same shall be referred to the DENR - BMB, without prejudice to
2 
the latter's referral or transfer of the animals to other animal facilities provided it has
3 
better and more suited facilities.
4 
Any animals seized and/or rescued from any inhumane condition or facility shall be
5 
immediately relieved from such condition or situation without prejudice to the
6 
immediate conduct of proper documentation such as photographing for purposes of
7 
preserving evidence.
8 
Sec. 29. Rescue of Animals in an Enclosed Facility. - Any animals found
9 
to have been kept, abandoned, deprived of basic care, protection, and food, or
10 
subjected to inhumane or cruel situations in an enclosed, locked, secured, or sealed
11 
facility, whether public or private, may be rescued, or relieved from the cruel situation or
12 
condition in coordination with the Barangay or the Law enforcement agencies or Animal
13 
Welfare Enforcement OfRcers/NGOs. The said enclosed facility may be broken open subject
14 
to diligent efforts shown to contact the owner of the facility. Except in cases where
15 
there is an imminent danger to the life of the animal, diligent effort to contact the
16 
owner of the facility may be dispensed with provided the Barangay or the Police or any
17 
licensed veterinarian has certified on the occurrence of such danger.
18 
Sec. 30. Protection Orders. - A protection order is a relief granted under
19 
this Act for the purpose of preventing further violations of the provisions herein as
20 
well as to protect an animal from further distress, fear, cruelty, or discomfort by
21 
relieving them or removing them from such inhumane condition and granting other
22 
necessary reliefs. The protection order shall be enforced by law enforcement agencies,
23 
deputized animal welfare enforcement officers, or the Bureau.
24 
The protection orders that may be issued under this Act are the Barangay
25 
Protection Order (BPO), temporary protection order (TPO), and permanent protection
26 
order (PPO).
27 
A Barangay Protection Order is issued by the barangay office where the
28 
perpetrator of the prohibited act or the complaining individual or entity lives or holds
29 
office. This BPO shall be effective for fifteen (15) days. ATemporary Protection Order shall
30 
be issued by the court having jurisdiction over the case filed against the respondent
31 
which shall last for a period of thirty (30) days. A Permanent Protection Order shall be
32 
issued by the appropriate court having jurisdiction over the case filed against the
14


1 
respondent which shall remain in effect unless revoked by the court after the dismissal of
2 
the case against the respondent.
3 
A protection order may be sought by any concerned citizen, deputized animal
4 
welfare officer, law enforcement officer, the Board, or the LGU through the City or
5 
Provincial Veterinary Officers.
6 
The protection under this Act may include any of the following reliefs:
7 
(a) Prohibition of respondent from taking possession of the animal(s) that
8 
is or was in the respondent's possession;
9 
(b) Prohibition of respondent from taking possession of any animal for the
10 
duration of the protection order;
11 
(c) Prohibition of respondent from purchasing any live animal for any
12 
purpose for the duration of the protection order;
13 
(d) Directing the respondent to stay away from the person who has caused
14 
the apprehension of the respondent and his or her family or household
15 
member at a distance specified in the protection order or a minimum of 50
16 
meters;
17 
(e) Directing the respondent to stay away from the residence, school, place
18 
of employment, or any specified place frequented by a particular reporter,
19 
as well as such reporter's designated family or household member/s;
20 
(f) Granting temporary or permanent custody of the animal to any animal
21 
welfare enforcement officer or any interested animal welfare group who
22 
shall apply for the custody of said animal/s;
23 
(g) Restitution for actual costs for the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of
24 
animal/s subject matter of the protection order; and
25 
(h) Such other forms of relief as the court deems necessary to protect any
26 
animals as well as any Reporter and the Reporter's designated family or
27 
household member/s.
28 
The issuance of the BPO or the pendency of an application for BPO shall not
29 
preclude the application for or the granting of TPO or PPO. Any violation of the protection
30 
order shall be deemed as multiple violations under this Act and shall be penalized
31 
accordingly.
15


1 
Sec. 31. Strategic Lawsuit Against Pubiic Participation (SLAPP) in the
2 
Enforcement of this Act - If a person believes that a legal action filed against the
3 
person constitutes a SLAPP, such person may make such assertion as an affirmative
4 
defense in the action. A special hearing on the SLAPP affirmative defense shall be held
5 
by the court at the earliest possible juncture in the action. The hearing on the SLAPP
6 
affirmative defense shali be summary in nature, and the SLAPP affirmative defense shall
7 
be resolved within thirty (30) days after the summary hearing. If the court dismisses the
8 
action pursuant to the SLAPP affirmative defense, the court may award attorney's fees
9 
and costs of suit, as well as damages under a counterclaim if such has been filed. The
10 
dismissal shall be with prejudice.
11 
If the court rejects the SLAPP affirmative defense, the evidence adduced during
12 
the summary hearing shali be treated as evidence of the parties on the merits of the case.
13 
The action shall proceed in accordance with the Rules of the Court.
14 
Sec. 32. Disputable Presumption. - If, at the time of apprehension, a person
15 
lacks the appropriate permit, certification or clearance, or authority, issued by the Bureau
16 
or other pertinent government agencies including duly licensed Local Government
17 
Veterinarian, the following shall constitute prima facie evidence of the corresponding
18 
illegal acts punishable under this Act:
19 
a. The possession of a body, carcasses or any parts thereof, meats of any animals
20 
prohibited to be killed, whether raw, cooked or processed, other than those
21 
allowed under existing laws on food animals, without justification or necessary
22 
permit or veterinary certificate from the Bureau, LGU Veterinarian, or the
23 
National Meat Inspection Service or local slaughterhouses showing the reasons
24 
for the killing and the method used for the killing as well as the purpose for
25 
which the carcasses are to be used is a presumption that the animals were
26 
killed under circumstances prohibited under this Act thus, punishable, provided
27 
that such possession includes the possession of any paraphernalia used for
28 
killing, torture or maltreatment such as clubs, knife, cages, restraints along with
29 
live or dead animals including any of its products and derivatives shall be a
30 
disputable presumption that the possessor caused the killing and/or
31 
destruction, infliction of injury, maltreatment, as appropriate;
32 
b. The presence of fresh and/or dried blood, by-products, or derivatives of the
16


1 
animals, with or without the tools, equipment, and/or paraphernalia
2 
derivatives, shall be a disputable presumption of the killing and/or destruction
3 
of the habitat of the animal involved.
4 
CHAPTER VII
5 
PERMITS, CERTIFICATES, AND AUTHORITY TO COLLECT FEES AND CHARGES
6 
Sec. 33. Certificate of Registration. - No person, association, partnership,
7 
corporation, cooperative, or any government agency or instrumentality shall establish,
8 
maintain, or operate any animal facility including transport facility public or private,
9 
without first securing from the Bureau a certificate of registration thereof. Any facility,
10 
public or private, shall be considered as operating an animal facility when the following
11 
circumstances are present:
12 
a. When operating and representing itself publicly as such; and
13 
b. When it has been securing donations or effecting rescue under the
14 
definition of this code.
15 
As such, the said facility shall be covered by the guidelines and requirements of
16 
the Act.
17 
The Bureau shall provide ample and reasonable time for any person, association,
18 
partnership, corporation, cooperative, or any government agency or instrumentality to
19 
register any animal facility, with due consideration of their scale and financial resources.
20 
The Bureau may revoke or cancel the certificate of registration of an animal facility
21 
if such animal facility is found to be in violation of any provision of this Act or any
22 
associated guidelines, rules, regulations, standards or other just cause. The facility may
23 
file with the Bureau a request for reconsideration within fifteen (15) calendar days from
24 
receipt of the notice of revocation or cancellation of certificate. The Bureau shall resolve
25 
the same with finality within fifteen (15) calendar days from receipt of the request.
26 
Sec. 34. Mayor's Permit Requirement - No LGU shall issue a Mayor's or
27 
business permit to any person, association, partnership, corporation, cooperative or
28 
government agency or instrumentality without the presentation of a certificate coming
29 
from the Bureau that it has complied with the animal welfare standards set forth herein
30 
or any rules and regulations as may hereafter be enforced.
31 
CHAPTER VIII
17


1 
OTHER ANIMAL WELFARE PROVISIONS
2 
Sec. 35. Use of Animals for Show, Media, TV, Movies, or Entertainment-
3 
Promoters/organizers of animal shows, media, or entertainment, shall obtain the
4 
necessary permit from the Bureau when using animals. The presence of a licensed
5 
veterinarian during the entire show, taping, shooting, or program shall be required. The
6 
Bureau shall lay down requirements for this purpose. Ali other provisions regarding proper
7 
care and treatment of animals, in general, shall be applicable to these animals used for
8 
show or entertainment, especially with respect to transport, holding area, allowance for
9 
rest, and provision of food and water.
10 
It shall be unlawful for producers and promoters of shows where animals are used
11 
to Import, procure or use animals from sources without animal welfare standards/laws
12 
and/or have been shown to have maltreated or exposed animals to Inhumane conditions
13 
prior to their importation. The animal should be given sufficient food and accommodation
14 
as well as adequate rest for the entire duration of Its stay in the Philippines.
15 
Sec. 36. Use of Animats for Work. - Animals used as working animals including
16 
but not limited to carriage horses, farm animals, and the like must comply with the health
17 
and welfare standards set forth herein and as may be issued by the Bureau taking into
18 
consideration their nature and behavior. Working animals should not be allowed to work
19 
under circumstances where their health and safety will be at risk. Overworking of animals
20 
is hereby prohibited. Water and appropriate shelter protecting the same from extreme
21 
weather conditions must be provided.
22 
Sec. 37. Use of Animals as a Guide or Service Animals. — Service animals,
23 
such as but not limited to guide/service dogs and police or K9 dogs are hereby regulated
24 
by the Bureau and welfare guidelines established. Certification guidelines and standards
25 
for the accreditation of dogs shall be established by the Bureau in consultation with
26 
relevant agencies and concerned groups. Service dogs or Guide dogs shall be defined
27 
accordingly.
28 
Sec. 38. Use of Animals in Research and Scientific Study. - Animals used in
29 
scientific procedures, research, and studies shall be regulated by the Bureau, ensuring
30 
that animal welfare regulations and guidelines in the use, experimentation, testing, and
31 
manipulations of animals for said purpose are complied with at all times. The academe
32 
and research institutions are encouraged to use non-animal research, testing, or
18


1 
educational model or strategy when reasonably and practicably available. Animal
2 
experimentation may be performed only as a last resort upon exhaustion of alternative
3 
approaches. No person, partnership, corporation, cooperative, government agency, or
4 
instrumentality undertaking or operating any research facility shall use any animal in
5 
research or experiments without first obtaining written authorization from the Bureau
6 
upon compliance with such guidelines and qualifications necessary to obtain such
7 
authority.
8 
Sec. 39. Farm Animals. - The Bureau shall set out standards and guidelines in
9 
consultation with the stakeholders in the establishment and gradual compliance with
10 
animal welfare standards to better the living and health condition of animals in the farm
11 
industry.
12 
Sec. 40. Transportation of Animals. - The following stipulations shall be
13 
followed when transporting animals:
14 
a. No person shall transport an animal or cause an animal to be transported in a
15 
way likely to cause injury or undue suffering to an animal, including but not limited
16 
to overcrowding, lack of adequate ventilation and appropriate transport cages,
17 
unnecessary or painful restraint, improper and unsafe stowing, transport during
18 
extreme weather condition and the like, as well as failure to adequately provide
19 
food and water for the transported animals.
20 
b. Any person transporting an animal in connection with an economic activity shall:
21 
i. Ensure that such animal is fit to travel and checked regularly during the
22 
voyage, at least once every six hours;
23 
ii. Protect such animals from extreme temperatures, with journeys limited
24 
to duration as prescribed by the Bureau depending on the species, nature,
25 
and needs of the transported animal;
26 
Hi. Ensure that vehicle loading and unloading facilities are constructed and
27 
maintained to avoid injury and suffering;
28 
iv. Provide sufficient floor space and height allowance so as to allow such
29 
animal to lie down, stand up, fully stretch Its limbs, and turn around freely
30 
without any Impediment;
19


1 
V. After each eight (8) hour travel period, rest such animal off the vehicle
2 
for at least 24 hours, providing such animal sufficient water and feed; and
3 
vi. The route with the shortest distance shall be preferred.
4 
For purposes of this Section, transport "in connection with an economic activity"
5 
includes but is not limited to journeys undertaken by commercial haulers, farmers,
6 
commercial animal breeders, and horse racers. Such transport is not limited to transport
7 
where an immediate exchange of money, goods, or services takes place and instead
8 
includes, in particular, transport that directly or indirectly involves or alms at a financial
9 
gain.
10 
c. No person shall transport an animal fewer than eight (8) weeks old, a pregnant
11 
female who has passed through ninety percent (90%) of her expected gestational
12 
period, a female who has given birth in the past seven (7) days, or a sick or injured
13 
animal unless such transport is to or from a veterinary practice or clinic.
14 
d. Any violation of this Section shall be penalized even if the transporter has a
15 
permit to transport from the Bureau; and
16 
e. Any vehicle used in the transportation or importation/exportation of animals in
17 
violation of the provisions of this Act shall be deemed an instrument employed in
18 
the commission of the crime and shall be ordered confiscated and forfeited in favor
19 
of the government upon conviction of the accused.
20 
Sec. 41. Import and Export of Live Animals. — For the import and/or export
21 
of live animals, compliance with the provisions of this Act must be ensured, including
22 
proper holding facilities. Import of animals from countries of extremely cold climates shall
23 
be prohibited unless specifically authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Bureau upon
24 
submission of an approved care and sustainability program or plan.
25 
Sec. 42. Spay and Neuter and Vaccination of Stray Cats and Dogs - The
26 
LGUs through the Office of the Provincial, City, and First-Class Municipalities shall
27 
implement a mandatory spay and neuter for stray dogs and cats to control animal strays
28 
and rabies. The Bureau may come up with other dog/cat population control programs in
29 
keeping with what is relevant and necessary. Pest control companies shall not be allowed
30 
to capture and dispose of cats and/or dogs. To ensure commitment by the LGUs, the
31 
implementation of this Section shall be part of their Seal of Good Local Governance
32 
(SGLG) assessment system.
20


1 
Sec. 43. Communication, Education, and other Pubiic Awareness
2 
Campaigns. - The Bureau together with other agencies, NGOs, and stakeholders shall
3 
implement programs towards increasing awareness of animal welfare through education
4 
and various information awareness activities and programs.
5 
CHAPTER IX
6 
APPROPRIATION
7 
Sec. 44. Appropriation. - The initial funding to establish the Bureau shall be
8 
taken from the General Appropriations of the Department of Agriculture to the extent of
9 
the amount of Fifty Million Pesos (50,000,000) for the first year.
10 
The subsequent funding shall be included In the General Appropriation Act which
11 
shall include all necessary amounts to achieve the purposes of this Act and to ensure the
12 
proper functioning of the Bureau, including the enforcement of this Act.
13 
CHAPTER X
14 
PENALTIES
15 
Sec. 45. Penaities. - The following penalties shall be imposed for violation of any
16 
provision of this Act;
17 
a. Any person who subjects any animal to cruelty, torture, maltreatment or
18 
any of the prohibited acts herein shall be punished with a penalty of Imprisonment
19 
ranging from one (1) year and six (6) months to three (3) years and a fine of not
20 
less than thirty thousand pesos (P30,000.00) but not more than one hundred
21 
thousand pesos (P100,000.00).
22 
b. Abandonment of animals shall be punished with a penalty of
23 
imprisonment ranging from six (6) months to one (1) year, and a fine not
24 
exceeding ten thousand pesos (P10,000.00). If the animal is left In circumstances
25 
likely to cause the animal unnecessary suffering or If this abandonment results in
26 
the death or Injury of the animal, the person liable shall suffer the maximum
27 
penalty of imprisonment of one (1) year and a fine of ten thousand pesos
28 
(P10,000.00).
29 
c. Operating an animal facility, including any animal transport facility,
30 
without the required permit shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment
31 
ranging from six (6) months to one (1) year and a fine not exceeding ten thousand
21


1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
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 use animals 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 thereof shall be punished with the corresponding penalty of 
Imprisonment. If the violation is committed by an alien, he or she shall be 
immediately deported after the service of sentence without any further 
proceedings;
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:
i. Committed by a syndicate involving a group of three (3) or more 
individuals;
ii. Committed by an offender who makes a business out of cruelty to 
animals;
iii. Committed by a public officer or employee; or
iv. 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 or her trial for a violation of this Act, shall have been previously 
convicted by final judgment of the same or another violation of this Act;
i. Any person found guilty of dog meat trading shall be punished with a 
penalty of fine not exceeding five thousand pesos (P5,000.00) per dog and penalty 
of Imprisonment ranging from one (1) year to four (4) years;
22


1 
j. Any violation of any other provisions of this Act shall be punished with a
2 
penalty of imprisonment ranging from three (3) months to one (1) year and a fine
3 
not exceeding five thousand pesos (P5,000.00);
4 
k. The liability of any person herein is without prejudice to his/her liability
5 
for any other offenses under another law including administrative liabilities;
6 
I. Any person who has been habitually convicted of a violation of this Act
7 
shall be permanently and perpetually disqualified from being Issued any permits
8 
or certificates to operate any animal facility including owning or possessing an
9 
animal/pet;
10 
m. The courts, in its discretion, in lieu of service in jail, may require that the
11 
imposed penalties of imprisonment not exceeding one (1) year be served by the
12 
defendant by rendering community service under such terms and conditions that
13 
the courts may determine depending on the gravity of the offense. Under this
14 
circumstance, the courts will prepare an order Imposing the penalty of community
15 
service in lieu of the penalty, specifying the number of hours to be worked and the
16 
period for it to be completed. Community service to be rendered must be related
17 
to assistance to animals.
18 
CHAPTER XI
19 
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
20 
Sec. 46. Animal Welfare Fund. - There is hereby established an Animal Welfare
21 
Fund to be administered by the Bureau as a special account In the National Treasury. It
22 
shall finance the programs of the Bureau on animal welfare as well as the enforcement
23 
process. The Fund shall be derived from fines imposed and damages awarded pursuant
24 
to violations of this Act, fees charged for permits, registrations, authorizations, donations,
25 
endowments, administrative fees, or grants in the form of contributions. Contribution to
26 
the Fund shall be exempt from donor taxes and all other taxes, charges, or fees Imposed
27 
by the government.
28 
Sec. 47. Mandatory Animal Welfare Education. - It shall be mandatory for all
29 
primary and secondary education schools, public and private to integrate in their
30 
curriculum and have activities on the following:
31 
(1) The promotion and protection of the welfare of animals;
23


1 
(2) 
(2) Responsible pet ownership; and
2 
(3) 
(3) Concept of animal welfare.
3 
Sec. 48. Emergency Response. - The Bureau shall create and implement, in
4 
collaboration with the LGUs and animal welfare NGOs, an interagency emergency
5 
response program for rescuing and caring for animals in times of calamity including but
6 
not limited to floods, earthquakes, and the like. Such program shall include the
7 
establishment and placing of the animals in identified animal evacuation centers,
8 
temporary shelters, and/or recognized rescue centers, whether public or private until the
9 
same is claimed by their rightful owners or can be rehomed appropriately.
10 
The Bureau, through the LGUs, shall likewise establish an emergency response
11 
system to rescue and/or refer animals' victim of abuse, cruelty, and maltreatment to
12 
recognized animal shelters or facilities whether public or private.
13 
Sec. 49. Custody of Rescued Animats - Any animal/s seized or rescued from
14 
violators of this Act made in response to a violation of any provision of this Act and
15 
subsequent guidelines, rules, and regulations may be held in custody pending disposition
16 
of administrative, civil, or criminal proceedings. Animals seized or rescued shall be
17 
referred to the Local Government Pound or Shelter, Bureau accredited animal facilities
18 
subject to rules and regulations as may be hereinafter issued. For wildlife, the same shall
19 
be referred to the DENR-BMB or their nearest regional offices.
20 
Sec. 50. Role of Local Government Units and other government agencies.
21 
- LGUs shall support the Bureau In the implementation of this Act by issuing necessary
22 
animal welfare ordinances and implementing animal welfare programs in coordination
23 
with the Bureau, including the conduct of mandatory spay and neutering to control dog
24 
and cat population as well as veterinary access. Other government agencies handling
25 
animals within the definition of this Act are required to adopt and implement animal
26 
welfare standards, policies, rules, and regulations in their operation consistent with this
27 
Act.
28 
Recognizing the important role of the Barangay, a Barangay Animal Welfare Task
29 
Force shall be created and shall adopt programs consistent with the provisions of this Act
30 
and rules and regulations issued to implement the purpose of this Act.
31 
Sec. 51. Construction of the Law. - This Act shall be liberally construed in favor
32 
of the promotion and protection of the welfare of the animals.
24


1 
Sec. 52. Transition. - During the transition within one (1) year from effectivity
2 
hereof, the existing Bureau of Animal Industry shall remain to be the supervisory and
3 
authority in the implementation of the provisions of this act and shall manage, supervise
4 
turn over, and monitor the establishment of the Bureau until the same becomes
5 
operational including the assignment and appointment of personnel and staff during the
6 
transition.
7 
Sec. 53. Separabiiity Clause. - If any portion or provision of this Act is declared
8 
unconstitutional or invalid, the other portions or provisions hereof, which are not affected,
9 
shall continue to be in full force and effect.
10 
Sec. 54. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, rules, and regulations
11 
inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.
12 
Sec. 55. Effectivity. - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its
13 
publication In the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.
Approved,
25