Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE 0F REPRESENTATIVES
Constitution Hills, Quezon City
NINETEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session
HOUSE BILL No.  ig±. 3`5
DATE
CEIVED
MAy  2 ® an
"E i '. SOEL
BL"mEL
Introduced by REP. FAUSTINO `INNO' A. DY V
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This  bill  seeks  to  strengthen  animal  welfare  standards  in  the  country  by
providing for a Revised Animal Welfare Act. It aims to address poliey gaps in existing
legislation in order to safeguard and promote the welfare of animals, particularly pets
as defined in the bill.
Among the key features of the bill are the following:
I   Creation of the Animal Welfare Bureau under the Department of Agriculture.
The Bureau is mandated to formulate policies, guidelines, standards, rules, and
regulations for the effective inplementation of the Act;
I   Appointment   of  Animal   Welfare   Officers   who   shall  be  responsible   for
implementing   animal   welfare   programs   in   the   region,   province,   city   or
municipality and reporting any issues and concerns directly to the Bureau.
I   Deputization of Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers who shall have authority
to  seize  and  rescue  illegally  traded  and  maltreated  animals  and  to  arrest
violators  of this  Act subject to existing laws, rules, and regulations on arrest
and detention;
I   Enumeration of the basic animal care and handling guidelines to be followed
by animal keepers, aninal facilities and animal transportation facilities;


I   Enumeration of prohibited acts including prohibition on cruelty, maltreatment,
abuse, exploitation and killing of pet animals; and
I   Imposition of higher penalties for any violation of the Act,
In  essence,  this  bill  aims  to  create  a  more  compassionate  and  responsible
society where animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this measure is earnestly sought.


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE 0F REPRESENTATIVES
Constitution Hills, Quezon City
NINHTHENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session
HOUSEBILLNo.±.'i35
Introduced by REP. FAUSTINO `INNO' A. DY V
AN ACT STRENGTHHNING ANIMAL WELFARE STANDARDS,
ENACTING A REVISED ANIMAL WELFARH 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
Sec. 1. Title. This Act shall be known as the "The Revised Animal Welfare Act".
Sec.  2.  Declaration  of Policy.  -  It  is  the  State's  policy to protect life,  liberty,  and
property which  includes  the promotion  of animal  welfare by  establishing  a  system of
supervision  and  regulation  to  ensure  humane  treatment  in  all  aspects  of the  keeping,
maintaining, handling, transporting, breeding, training, treating, and use of animals. Good
animal welfare involves adherence to the five basic freedoms of animals namely:
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.


Sec.   3.      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:
a.   Handle,   breed,   train,   keep,   care   for,   transport,   exhibit,   display, use,  or
otherwise  interact  with  any  animals,  whether as  pets,  livestock,  wildlife,  or
animals used for education, entertainment, or show; or
b.   Own, operate, or maintain any facility that interacts with animals.
Sec.4. Objectives. -The   State   shall  promote  the  welfare   of  all  animals  by
establishing rules, regulations, guidelines, and standards and endeavour to achieve the
following objectives:
a.   To      protect      and     promote     animal     welfare     by     providing     rules,
regulations,  guidelines,  and  standards  in  the  establishment  and operation  of
animal facilities, transportation, and the like;
b.   To   establish  welfare  guidelines and  standards  in the  use,  treating, breeding,
maintaining, keeping, and training of all animals;
c.   To protect and promote animal  health through the  maintenance  of adequate,
clean,   and   sanitary  facilities  used   in  the  keeping,   breeding, treating, and
training of animals;
d.   To      promote      responsible      pet    ownership      through     education     and
information dissemination;
e.   To   regulate   the   operation   and   maintenance   of animal   facilities   or any
establishment where animals are kept for whatever reason or purpose;
f.   To  forlnulate rules  and regulations that will  ensure the promotion of animal
welfare  in  the  establishment,  maintenance,  and  operation  of any  pet  shop,
kennel, pound,   shelter,   slaughterhouse, veterinary clinic, veterinary hospital,
stockyard,  corral,  stud farm,  or stock farm or zoo  for the breeding,  raising,
treatment, sale or trading, or training of animals;
9.   To establish inter-agency, multi-sectoral, and local government cooperation for
the promotion and protection of animal welfare;
h.   To  create    an  agency   and  establish   an  organizational    structure   that will
effectively implement the provisions of this Act and all laws relevant to it;
i.    To  promote  public  awareness  and  concern  for  caring  for animals  and their
welfare.
See. 5. Animal Welfare Principles. -  Animal welfare standards, practices, policies,
and regulations must 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 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 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 confomi to essential behavioural patterns; 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.
Sec. 6. Definitions. - As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean:
1.  ,4#z."cz/s refer to domesticated  vertebrate   and  invertebrate   species under the
control    of   man,   which   may   be   food-producing,   companion,  laborers,
aquatic,   or   laboratory   including   birds.      The  term   excludes   human  and
non-mammalian species;
2.  ,4#z.mcI/  Wre//are  pertains  to  the  physical  and  psychological    well-being  of
animals.    It     includes,   but   is   not   limited   to,   the   avoidance   of  abuse,
maltreatment,      cruelty,      and      exploitation     of     animals  by humans by
maintaining   appropriate   standards of accommodation, feeding,   and general
care,     the     prevention    and   treatment   of disease,   and    the assurance of
freedom from fear, distress, harassment and unnecessary discomfort and pain
and allowing animals to express normal behavior;


3.  4#z."¢/  F¢cz./z.fy  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,  kernels,  race  tracks,  cockpits,  pet  shops,  shelters,  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;
4.   472z.mcz/ flgfa#.#g   ve#fwre  refers   to   any   event,   show,   exhibition, program,
or   other   activity   that   involves   a   fight   conducted   or   to    be conducted
between  two or  more animals for purposes of sport, wagering, amusement, or
entertairment;
5.   j4#z.7#cz/  7ye//are OJLicer refers to the Regional, Provincial, City and Municipal
Officers, designated as such, who shall be responsible for implementing animal
welfare programs in their area and reporting any issues and concerns directly to
the Bureau;
6.  4#z.m¢/  We//czre E#/orceme#J  Oj7}cer refers to the Philippine National Police,
National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies, citizens'
groups, community organizations, and other volunteer members of NGOs, and
Peoples organizations designated as such enforcement officers by the Secretary
of Agriculture;
7.   B#7ieczw refers to the Animal Welfare Bureau;
8.   Capfz.ve  j47®z.rna/a  refers  to  animals  that  are  confined     for  educational     or
recreationalpurposes     in     places     such     as    but    not    limited    to    zoos,
sanctuaries, rescue centers, sea or ocean facility, and the like;
9.   Dep¢rfme7zf refers to the Department of Agriculture;
10. Dz.reczor refers to the individual in charge of the Animal Welfare Bureau;
11. Ewf%¢#asz.cz refers to the Bureau approved process or method of painless death
of animals;
12.Keeper refers  to  any person who  owns,  possesses, or has control or custody
over an animal;


13 . £oc¢/ Gove77c"c#f U#zt rz,GUJ refers to the Province, City, or Municipalities;
14.Pets  refers  to  documented  or  otherwise,  or  domestic  animals  intended    for
companionship,   therapy,   seeing   and   hearing   guides, 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;
15. Perso#  refers  to  any  individual,  colporation,  company,  business,  enterprise,
association, partnership, syndicate, trust, or other entity;
16.Repor/er  refers  to  any  person  who  reports  a  suspected  violation  of  any
provision of this Act to the proper authorities;
17. Sec#efczry refers to the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture;
18. Strategic Lawsuit Against public participation   (SLAPP)    re;fels   to    al   Legfll
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;
19. rrcz72spo7'/ Fczcz./i.fy  refers  to  any  transportation public  or private, whether air,
water,  or land  including  tricycles  and the like used to transport animals to  a
particular destination;
20. W?/d  cz#z."¢/  refers  to     any  individual  of  a  species  that  is  not  normally
domesticated in the Philippines,  including those in captivity under the control
of a person.
Furthermore,  the  Bureau  may  define  such  other  terms  as  may  be  used  in  the
implementation of this Act;
CHAPTER 11
THE ANIMAL IVELFARE BUREAU


Sec.  7.  Animal  Welfare  Bureau  -  is hereby  created as  a line bureau under the
Department of Agriculture. It shall establish regional, provincial and municipal offices
as  may  be  appropriate  and  necessary  to  carry  out  effectively  and  efficiently  the
provisions of this Act.
See.  8.  Functions  of the   Bureau. - As a line bureau, it shall have the following
functions:
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;
9.   Fomulate  guidelines  and  qualifications  related  to  research  and  testing  on
animals;
10. To issue, suspend, cancel permits or certifications pursuant to the purposes of
this Act; To  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;
11. Keep  records  and documents  pertaining  to  animal  welfare  in the  country  as
well  as the maintenance of surveillance and management information system
on animal welfare;
12.Create  a     system    and    guidelines  for  the  determination  or  approval    of
applications  of  certifications,  authorizations,  and  permits  necessary  for  the
establishment,  maintenance,  and  operation  of animal  facilities,  as  well  as  to
issue  said  certifications,  authorizations, and permits and to collect associated
fees;
13 . To call upon any government agencies 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,  and  it  shall  be  the  duty  of such government agency to assist the
Bureau when called upon for assistance using any available fund  in its budget
for the purpose; and
14.Perform    such    other   duties    and   responsibilities   which   are necessary to
achieve the purposes of this Act,
See. 9.  Composition of the Bureau. - As a line bureau, the Bureau shall be headed
by  a  Director  and assisted by  two  (2)  Assistant Directors  who  shall  supervise  the
administrative and technical services of the Bureau.
The Director must possess adequate knowledge, training and experience in the field of
agriculture,  biology,  animal  husbandry,  veterinary  science,  veterinary  medicine  or
other similar discipline.


Sec.  10.    Personnel and Staffing Pattern. ~   Notwithstanding the provisions  of
existing  laws,  the   Secretary  of  the  Department  of Agriculture  shall  require  the
Director  of the  Bureau  of Animal  Industry  (BAI),  as  an  interim  Director  of the
Bureau,  to  submit  within  thirty  (30)  days  from  the  effectivity  of  this  Act  their
recommendation on the personnel and staffmg pattern of the Bureau and to submit the
same   to   the   Department   of  Budget   and   Management   and   the   Civil   Service
Commission.
CHAPTER Ill
ANIMAL WELFARE ENFORCEMHNT OFFICERS AND UNITS
Sec.   11.  Regional,  Provincial,  City,  Municipal  Animal  Welfare  Officers.  -  A
Regional Animal Welfare Officer shall be appointed by the Secretary for each Region
upon the recommendation of the Director from the associated regional offices of the
Department of Agriculture. This Regional Animal Welfare Officer shall be responsible
for implementing animal welfare programs in the region and shall report any issues
and  concerns  directly  to  the  Bureau.  Each Regional Animal Welfare  Officer must
possess the following minimum qualifications:
1.   Veterinarian with minimum 2 years of experience of veterinary practice or an
animal husbandry graduate;
2.   Has   undergone  relevant  training  on  animal  welfare  and  related  trainings
involving enforcement.
Provinces  and cities  shall  also  assign their respective Animal Welfare Officers and
necessary  technical  support  staff  from  the  Provincial/City  Veterinary  Officers  to
effectively implement the provisions of this Act. Municipalities shall likewise appoint
an Animal Welfare Officer within its Municipal Agriculture Office.
See. 12. Deputization of Animal Welfare Enforcement Ofrlcers. - The Secretary
of the Department of Agriculture shall deputize animal welfare enforcement officers
from non-goverrment organizations, citizens' groups, community organizations, and
other volunteers who have undergone the necessary training for this purpose.
The Philippine National Police (PNP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the
National  Bureau  of Investigation  (NBI),  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 enforcement officers, the said law enforcement
officers 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  to  arrest  violators  of this  Act
subject to existing laws, rules, and regulations on arrest and detention. Regardless of
the absence of designated animal welfare enforcement officers in law enforcement, the
same shall not preclude them from the enforcement of the provisions of this Act.
The   Bureau   shall   set   guidelines   in   the   training,   qualification,   reporting,   and
coordination of deputized animal welfare enforcement officers to cover the following:
1.   Guidelines  on  the  criteria  and  training  requirements  for the  deputization  of
animal welfare enforcement officers; and
2.   The   mechanism  for  the   supervision,   monitoring,   and  reporting   of  these
enforcement officers.
CRAPTER IV
BASIC ANIMAL CARE AND HANDLING GUIDELINES
Sec. 13. Provision of Food and Water. - Any keeper of an animal must provide the
animal  with,  or  arrange  to  have  the  animal  provided  with,  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 is 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.
Sec.  14.  Provision  of appropriate  Shelter  and  Facilities.  - Any keeper  of an
animal must provide such animal 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 behaviour and
locomotion.


See. 15. Provision of Veterinary Medical Care for Sick, Compromised, or Injured
Animals. - Any keeper of an animal must take all reasonable steps to ensure that the
physical,  health,  and behavioural needs  of the  animals  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, where needed, humane euthanasia by
a licensed veterinarian.
Sec.  16.  Provision  of Appropriate Thansport Facility. - Transport facilities  for
animals  must  be  constructed,  provisioned,  and  utilized  in  such  a way  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.
Sec.  17.    Provision  of Opportunity for Animals  to  Express  Natural Behaviors
Including Play, Provision of Enrichment Activities, and Exercise. - Any keeper
of   an    animal   must   provide   such   animals   regular   opportunities   to   express
species-specific  natural  behaviours,  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  fami  facilities  to  comply with the provisions
hereof.
CHAPTER V
PROHIBITED ACTS
See.  18.  Prohibition  on  Cruelty,  Maltreatment, Abuse,  and Exploitation. - It
shall be unlawful for any person to torture, abuse, exploit any animal, to neglect to
provide  adequate  care,  sustenance,  or  shelter,  or  maltreat  any  animals,  cause  or
procure to be tortured, or deprive such animals of adequate care sustenance or shelter,
or maltreat or use the same 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,  causing the  animal  pain,  suffering,  or
distress, whether physical or psychological;
b.   Exposing an animal to inhumane and unsafe conditions and situations including
overcrowded,     inappropriate,     unclean,     or    unsahitary    animal  facilities,
shelters, or transport facilities;
c.   Killing an animal by way of electrocution or gas chamber or using any petrol or
diesel exhaust;
d.   Using  an  animal  in  research  or experiments  not  expressly  authorized by the
Bureau; and
e.   Overworking an animal.
Sec. 19. Prohibition on Neglect. - It shall be unlawful for any keeper of an animal
to fail to provide such animal with basic care in accordance with Chapter IV of this
Act. It shall also be unlawful for any keeper of an animal to allow such animal to roam
the streets resulting in its impoundment by the local impounding authority.
Sec. 20. Prohibition on Killing of Animals. - It shall be unlawful for any person to
kill any 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 cause or procuring the same to
be killed is prohibited except in the following instances:
I.   When it is done as part of the religious rituals of an established religion or sect
or  a  ritual  required  by  a  tribal  or  ethnic  custom  of  indigenous  cultural
communities;   however,   religious   or tribal   leaders   shall   keep   records  in
accordance with relevant guidelines issued on the matter;
2.   Euthanasia of a pet animal afflicted with an incurable communicable disease as
determined and certified by a duly licensed veterinarian;
3.   When euthanasia of an animal is deemed necessary to put an end to the misery
suffered  by  the   animal   as   determined   and  certified  by   a   duly  licensed
veterinarian;
4.   When it is  done  to prevent imminent danger to  the  life or limb of a human
being;


5.   When done for the purpose of animal population control as a last resort duly
certified by the Provincial/City Veterinary Officer;
6.   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
38;
7.   Humane slaughter of a farm animal; or
8.   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 procedures approved by the Animal Welfare
Bureau. For this puapose, humane procedures shall mean the use of the most scientific
methods available as may be determined by the Bureau.
See. 21. 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, and
the  like, not authorized or regulated by law. Any person who participates under the
circumstances   as   described  herein   shall   be   considered   as   an  accessory  in  the
commission of animal fighting and/or abetting in the commission of animal cruelty. It
shall include but not be limited to pitting one animal with another for the purpose of
human  entertainment,  wagering,  or  sport.  In  certain  instances,  one  of the  animals
involved may be a "bait animal" used for the ostensible puipose of sport or training.
The prohibition on animal fights shall include but not be limited to the following:
(a) Cause, procure, permit, encourage, promote, organize, sponsor, or incite a
fight in which an animal is pitted against another animal for any purposes
such as dog fighting and horse fighting and the like;
(b) Advertise, promote, sell tickets, or otherwise assist in an animal fighting
venture;
(c) Attend such a fight;
(d) Breed or train any animal for the purpose of having it fight, engage, or
otherwise participate in an animal fighting venture;
(e)  Permit  an  animal  fighting venture  to  take place  on any site,  structure,
facility, or other premises under the person's ownership or control;


(I) Attend, wager on, or otherwise patronize an animal fighting venture; and
(g) Cause or allow a person who has not yet reached the age of 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.
See. 22. Prohibition on Dog Meat Trading. -It shall be unlawful for any person to
engage  in the  trade  of dogs  for their meat which  includes  the  farming  or 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.
Sec. 23. Prohibition on Abandonment. - It shall be unlawful for any keeper of an
animal,   whether  temporary  or  permanent,  to  abandon  such  an  animal.  Animal
abandonment refers to leaving behind an animal alone or permitting the animal to be
abandoned in circumstances that might cause them harm.
See.   24.   Prohibition   on   Ear  Cropping/  Tail  docking,  De-vocalization,   and
Declawing. - The conduct of ear cropping, tail docking, devocalization, declawing,
or any other similar mutilation is prohibited as constituting animal cruelty except in
cases  as  may be  required  for the well-being of the animal as determined by a duly
licensed veterinarian and not for aesthetic purposes.  When allowed,  the  same may
only be performed by a duly licensed veterinarian.
See.  25.  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
See.  26.  In  General. - The Bureau,  either independently,  or in cooperation with
LGUs,     the     registered    NGOs,     Animal    Welfare    Enforcement  Officers,  the
Philippine  National  Police,  and  other concerned parties,  is  authorized to  cany  out


enforcement operations and measures to ensure compliance with the provisions of this
Act and to eradicate, stop and prevent activities prohibited under this Act.
Sec. 27. Visitoria]ITnspection Power. -Owners and/or operators of animal facilities
shall be subjected to regular, as well as random Inspections by the Bureau on its own
or through   its deputized   agencies and   Enforcement Officers to ensure compliance
with the standards set forth by this Act and   subsequent rules and regulations. Fines
and suspension or revocation of certificates as provided in the implementing rules and
regulations of this Act shall be imposed in case of non-compliance.
Sec. 28. Apprehension of offending Person/s. -Any person who  has  knowledge
or information about the  commission of any of the prohibited acts heretofore cited
may refer the same to the law enforcement authority or to the Animal Welfare Bureau
and/or its deputized animal welfare enforcement offlcers, and other law enforcement
agencies for appropriate action. The procedure in the filing of criminal charges shall
be as prescribed by the rules of criminal procedure contained in the Rules of Court.
Sec.  29.  Seizure  of Effects.  -  Any  items  seized  including  animals,  pursuant  to
arrests made for violation of any provision of this Act shall be held by any person,
facility,   or organization, authorized   by the   Bureau, including the   LGUs, the  law
enforcement   agencies   or   any   Bureau-accredited   NGO   pending   disposition   of
administrative,  civil  and  criminal  proceedings.  Animals  seized  shall  be  referred  to
Bureau-accredited  animal  facilities.  For  wildlife,  the  same  shall  be  referred  to  the
DENR-BMB, without prejudice to  the latter`s referral  or transfer of the  animals to
other animal facilities provided it has better and more suited facilities.
Any animals seized and/or rescued from any inhumane condition or facility shall be
immediately   relieved   from   such  condition  or situation  without prejudice  to  the
immediate  conduct of proper documentation such as photographing for purposes of
preserving evidence.
See. 30. Rescue of Animals in an Enclosed Facility. - Any animals 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  OfficersINGOs.  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 or the Police or any licensed veterinarian has certified on the occurrence of
such danger.
Sec. 31. Protection Orders. -  A protection order is a relief granted under this Act
for the purpose of preventing 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  conditions  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  Barangay Protection  Order is issued  by the barangay office where the perpetrator
of the prohibited act or the complaining individual or entity lives or holds office. This
BPO  shall be effective for fifteen (15) days. A Temporary Protection Order 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 Permanent Protection Order 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
officer, law enforcement officer, the Board, or the LGU through the City or Provincial
Veterinary Officers.
The protection under this Act may include any of the following reliefs:
a.   Prohibition of respondent from taking possession of the aninal(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 and his or her family or household member at a
distance specified in the protection order or a minimum of 50 meters;
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 designated family or household member/s;


f.   Granting temporary or permanent custody of the animal to any animal welfare
enforcement officer or any interested aninal welfare group who shall apply for
the custody of said animal/s;
9.   Restitution for actual costs for the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of animal/s
subject matter of the protection order; and
h.    Such other forins of relief as the court deems necessary to protect any animals
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 shall be penalized
accordingly.
See.   32.   Strategic   Lawsuit   Against   Public   Participation   (SLAPP)   in   the
Hnforcement of this Act. - If a person believes that a legal action filed against the
person constitutes a SLAPP,  such person may make such assertion as an affirmative
deferise  in the  action. A special hearing on the SLAPP affirmative defense shall be
held by the  court  at the  earliest possible juncture in the action.  The hearing on the
SLAPP affirmative defense shall be summary in nature, and the SLAPP aflirmative
defense  shall  be  resolved within  thirty  (30)  days  after the summary hearing.  If the
cout dismisses the action pursuant to the SLAPP affirmative defense, the court may
award  attomey'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 cout 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 the Court.
Sec. 33. Disputable Presumption. ~ If, at the time of apprehension, a person lacks
the appropriate permit, certification or clearance, or authority, issued by the Bureau or
other   pertinent  government  agencies  including  duly  licensed  Local Government
Veterinarian, the following shall constitute prima facie evidence of the corresponding
illegal acts punishable under this Act:
1.   The possession of a body, carcasses or any parts thereof, meats 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  veterinary  certificate  from  the  Bureau,  LGU  Veterinarian,  or  the
National Meat Inspection Service or local slaughterhouses showing the reasons


for the killing and the method used for the killing as well as the purpose for
which the carcasses are to be used is a presumption that the animals were killed
under circumstances prohibited under this Act thus, punishable, provided that
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  shall be a disputable
presumption that the possessor caused the killing and/or  destruction,  infliction
of injury;  maltreatment,  as appropriate;
2.   The presence  of fresh  and/or dried blood,  by-products,  or derivatives  of the
animals,    with    or   without   the   tools,   equipment,   and/or   paraphemalia
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 T0 COLLECT
FEES AND CHARGHS
Sec.   34.   Certificate  of  Registration  and  Permits.  -  No  person,  association,
partnership,  corporation,  cooperative,  or any government agency or instrumentality
shall  establish,  maintain,  or operate  any animal  facility  including  transport facility,
public or private, without first securing from the Bureau a certificate of registration
thereof.  Any  facility,  public  or  private,  that  has  a  minimum  of ten  (10)  animals
combined or otherwise shall be considered as operating an animal facility when the
following circulnstances 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 code.
As such, the said facility shall be covered by the guidelines and requirements of the
Act.
The Bureau may revoke or cancel the certificate of registration of an animal facility if
such  animal  facility  is  found to be in violation of any provision of this Act or any
associated guidelines, rules, regulations, standards or other just cause.


Sec. 35. Mayor's Permit Requirement. -No LGU shall issue a Mayor's or business
permit to any person, association, partnership, corporation, cooperative or government
agency  or instmmentality 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 as may hereafter be enforced.
CHAPTER VIII
OTHER ANIMAL WrnLFARE PROVISIONS
Sec.  36.  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 these
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/laws
and/or  have  been  shown  to  have  maltreated  or  exposed  aninals  to  inhumane
conditions prior to their importation. The animal should be given sufficient food and
accommodation  as  well  as  adequate  rest  for  the  entire  duration  of its  stay  in  the
Philippines.
See. 37. Use of Animals for Work. - Animals used as working aninals 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  may be  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 same from extreme weather conditions must be provided.
Sec. 38. Use of Animals as a Guide or Service Animals. -Service animals, such as
but not limited to guide/service dogs are hereby regulated by the Bureau and welfare
guidelines   established.  Certification  guidelines  and  standards  for  the accreditation


of dogs shall be established by the Bureau in consultation with relevant agencies and
concerned  groups.  Service dogs or Guide  dogs shall  be defined accordingly.
Sec.  39.  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
manipulations of animals for said purpose are complied with at all times. The academe
and  research  institutions  are  encouraged  to  use  non-animal  research,  testing,  or
educational  model  or  strategy  when  reasonably  and  practicably  available.  Animal
experimentation may be performed only as a last resort upon exhaustion of altemative
approaches. No person, partnership, corporation, cooperative, government agency, or
instrumentality undertaking or operating any research facility shall use any animal in
research or experiments without first obtaining written authorization from the Bureau
upon  compliance  with  such  guidelines  and  qualifications  necessary to  obtain  such
authority.
Sec.  40.  Farm  Animals.  - The Bureau  shall  set out  standards  and guidelines  in
consultation with the stakeholders in the establishment and gradual compliance with
animal  welfare  standards  to better the living and health condition of animals in the
farm industry.
Sec. 41. Thansportation of Animals. -  The following stipulations shall be followed
when transporting animals :
a.   No person shall transport an animal or cause an animal to be transported in a
way likely to cause injury or undue suffering to an animal, 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 condition and the like, as well as failure to adequately
provide food and water for the transported animals.
b.   No person transporting an animal in connection with an economic activity shall
fail to:
i.      Ensure that such animal is fit to travel and checked regularly during the
voyage, at least once every six hours;
ii.      Protect such animals from extreme temperatures, with journeys limited
to  duration  as  prescribed  by  the  Bureau  depending  on  the  species,
nature, and needs of the transported animal;
iii.      Ensure that vehicle loading and unloading facilities are constructed and
maintained to avoid injury and suffering;


iv.      Provide sufficient floor space and height allowance so as to allow such
animal to  lie  down,  stand up,  fully stretch its  limbs,  and turn around
freely without any impediment; and
v.      After each eight (8) hour travel period, rest such animals off the vehicle
for at least 24 hours, providing such animals sufficient water and food.
For  purposes  of  this   Section,  transport  "in  connection  with  an  economic
activity"  includes  but  is  not  limited  to journeys  undertaken  by  commercial
haulers, farmers, commercial animal breeders, and horse racers. Such transport
is not limited to transport where an immediate exchange of money, goods, or
services takes place and instead includes, in particular, transport that directly or
indirectly involves or aims at a financial gain.
c.   No person shall transport an animal fewer 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.
See. 42. Importation and Export of Live Animais. - For the import and/or export
of live animals, compliance with the provisions of this Act must be ensured, including
proper holding facilities. Import of animals from countries of extremely cold climates
shall  be  prohibited  unless  specifically  authorized  on  a  case-by-case  basis  by  the
Bureau upon submission of an approved care and sustainability program or plan.
Sec. 43. Spay and Neuter and Vaccination of Stray Cats and Dogs. - The LGUs
through  the   Office  of  the  Provincial,  City,  and  First-Class  Municipalities  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 dog/cat population control
programs in keeping with what is relevant and necessary. Pest control companies shall
not be allowed to capture and dispose of cats and/or dogs.


See. 44.  Communication,  Education,  and  other  Public  Awareness Campaigns.
- The Bureau together with other agencies, NG0s, and stakeholders shall implement
programs  towards  increasing  awareness  of animal  welfare  through  education  and
various information awareness activities and programs.
CHAPTER IX
APPROPRIATION
Sec. 45. Appropriation - The initial funding to establish the Bureau shall be taken
from the General Appropriations of the Department of Agriculture to the extent of the
amount of Fifty Million Pesos (50,000,000) 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.
CHAPTHR X
PENAIJTIES
Sec.  46.  Penalties.  -  The  following penalties shall be imposed for violation of any
provision of this Act:
a.   Any person who subjects any animal to cruelty, torture, maltreatment or any of
the prohibited acts herein shall, upon conviction by final judgment, be punished
by imprisonment and/ or fine, as indicated in the following graduated scale:
(1) Imprisonment of three (3) years and one (1) day to six (6) years and/or a
fine not exceeding Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P500,000.00) if the animal
subjected to cruelty, maltreatment or neglect dies;
(2) Imprisorment of one (1) year and one (1) day to three (3) years and/or a
fine not exceeding Three Hundred Thousand Pesos (P300,000.00) if the animal
subjected to  cruelty, maltreatment or neglect survives but is severely injured
with  loss  of  its  natural  faculty  to  survive  on  its  own  and  needing  human
intervention to sustain its life; and
(3) Imprisorment of six (6) months to one (I) year and/or a fine not exceeding
Fifty  Thousand  Pesos  (P50,000.00)  for  subjecting  any  animal  to  cruelty,


maltreatment  or neglect but without  causing  its  death  or incapacitating  it to
survive on its our.
b.   Abandonment     of    animals     shall    be    punished    with     a    penalty    of
imprisonment  ranging  from  six  (6)  months  to  one  (1)  year,  or  a  fine  not
exceeding one hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or both. If the animal is
left in circumstances likely to cause the animal  unnecessary suffering or if this
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 one
hundred thousand pesos (P 100,000.00).
c.   Operating  an  animal  facility,  including  any animal  transport facility, without
the required permit shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment ranging
from  six  (6)  months  to  one  (1)  year  or  a  fine  not  exceeding  one  hundred
thousand  pesos  (P100,000.00),   or  both.  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  or a  fine  not  exceeding  one
hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), or both.
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 three (3) years and one (1) day to
six  (6)  years  and/or  a  fine  not  exceeding  Five  Hundred  Thousand  Pesos
(P500,000.00),  or  both,  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.


9.   In   any   of  the   foregoing   situations,   the   offender   shall   suffer   subsidiary
imprisonment in case of insolvency and the inability to pay fine.
h.   The maximuni 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 fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00) per dog and penalty of
imprisonment ranging from one (1) year to four (4) years;
j.    Any  violation  of any  other provisions  of this  Act  shall be  punished with  a
penalty  of imprisonment ranging from three (3) months to one (1) year,  or a
fine not exceeding fifty thousand pesos (P50,000.00), or both;
k.    The liability of any person herein is without prejudice to histher liability for
any other offenses under another law including administrative liabilities;
I.     cry person who has been habitually convicted of a violation of this Act shall
be permanently and perpetually disqualified from being issued any permits or
certificates  to  operate  any  animal  facility  including owning or possessing an
animal/pet;
in.  The  courts,  in  its  discretion,  in lieu  of service  in jail,  may 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 courts may determine depending on the gravity of the offense. Under
this  circumstance,  the  courts  will  prepare  an order imposing the penalty  of
community service in lieu of the penalty, specifying the number of hours to be
worked  and  the  period  for  it  to  be  completed.  Community  service  to  be
rendered must be related to assistance to animals.
CHAPTER XI
MISCELLANHOUS PROVISIONS
See.  47. 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  as  well  as  the


enforcement  process.  The  Fund  shall  be  derived  from  fmes  imposed  and  damages
awarded  pursuant  to  violations  of this Act,  fees  charged for permits,  registrations,
authorizations,  donations, endowments, administrative fees, or grants in the form of
contributions. Contribution to the Fund shall be exempt from donor taxes and all other
taxes, charges, or fees imposed by the government.
Sec.  48.  Mandatory Animal Welfare Education. -   It shall be mandatory for all
primary  and  secondary  education  schools,  public  and  private,  to  integrate  in their
curriculum and have activities on the following:
1.   The promotion and protection of the welfare of animals;
2.   Responsible pet ownership; and
3.   Concept of animal welfare.
See.   49.   Emergency  Response.   -   The  Bureau  shall  create  and  implement,  in
collaboration with  the  LGUs  and animal  welfare NGOs, an interagency emergency
response program for rescuing and caring for animals in times of calamity including
but not limited to floods, earthquakes, and the like.  Such programs shall include the
establishment  and  placing  of the  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 rehomed appropriately.
The  Bureau,  through  the  LGUs,  shall  likewise  establish  an  emergency  response
system to rescue and/or refer animal victims of abuse, cruelty, and maltreatment to
recognized animal shelters or facilities whether public or private.
See.  50.  Custody  of  Rescued  Animals.  -  Any  animal/s  seized  or  rescued  from
violators of this Act made in response to a violation of any provision of this Act and
subsequent   guidelines,   rules,  and  regulations  may  be  held  in  custody  pending
disposition   of  administrative,  civil,  or  criminal  proceedings.   Animals  seized  or
rescued   shall   be   referred  to  the   Local   Government  Pound  or  Shelter,  Bureau
accredited  animal  facilities  subject  to  rules  and  regulations  as  may be  hereinafter
issued.  For wildlife,  the  same  shall be  referred to the DENR-BMB or their nearest
regional offlces.
Sec. 51.   Role   of  Local  Government  Units  and  other government agencies. -
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 conduct of mandatory spay and neutering to control
dog  and  cat  population  as  well  as  veterinary  access.  Other  government  agencies


handling animals within the definition of this Act are required to adopt and implement
animal welfare standards, policies, rules, and regulations in their operation consistent
with this Act.
Recognizing the  important role of the Barangay,  a Barangay Aninal Welfare Task
Force shall be created and shall adopt programs consistent with the provisions of this
Act and rules and regulations issued to implement the purpose of this Act.
Sec. 52. Construction of the Law. - This Act shall be liberally construed in favor of
the promotion and protection of the welfare of the animals.
Sec.  53.  Transition.  -  During  the  transition  within  one  (1)  year  from  effectivity
hereof, the existing Bureau of Animal Industry shall remain to be the supervisory and
authority  in  the  implementation  of the  provisions  of this  act  and  shall  manage,
supervise  turn  over,  and  monitor  the  establishment  of the  Bureau  until  the  same
becomes operational including the assignment and appointment of personnel and staff
during the transition.
See.  54.  Separability Clause.  - If any portion or provision of this Act is declared
unconstitutional  or  invalid,  the  other portions  or provisions hereof,  which are not
affected, shall continue to be in full force and effect.
See. 55.  Repealing  Clause. - All  laws,  decrees,  rules,  and  regulations inconsistent
with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.
See. 56. Hffectivity. -This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication
In the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.
Approved,