Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. _________ 
Introduced by:  REP. SALVADOR A. PLEYTO, SR. 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
This bill seeks to repeal Republic Act No. 8485 as amended by Republic Act 
No.10631 by strengthening the provisions of law relating to animal welfare and by likewise 
creating the Animal Welfare Bureau, which will be an attached agency to the Department of 
Agriculture. 
On 11 July 2023, a Facebook post by a concerned citizen, recounting the tragedy that 
she has witnessed while in a mall in Quezon City has gone viral. A three-month old puppy 
was thrown by one of the mall’s security guards off a footbridge causing its tragic death and 
traumatizing minor children who just a few minutes earlier was adoring and treating the 
puppy with food. This angered many Filipinos and called for the immediate dismissal of the 
security guard to which the mall heeded. This also prompted animal welfare NGOs like 
Animal Kingdom Foundation to file a case against the security guard and also impelled the 
PNP SOCIA to mandate the inclusion of animal welfare trainings and orientation among all 
security guards which the latter also committed to heed. This incident is only one of the few 
cases of animal cruelty and abuse happening that have luckily gone viral enabling citizens to 
have a united front and appealed for action. Many others, especially those regarded as 
“strays” are not as lucky. The harsh reality that stray animals experience every single day are 
not always publicized, leaving them to fend for themselves. 
In a series of household surveys made in 2017 by the Humane Society International, it 
was established that dog population is at a minimum of 20% of the human population. With 
the roaming dog population rising, two pressing issues being faced by the local government 
units are roaming dog management and rabies control. Sadly, these same dogs which are 
mostly owned and healthy and vaccinated by the LGUs are the same dogs/cats later on 
impounded and euthanized resulting to a waste of substantial resources with no clear 
community impact and solution to issues on animal health and welfare, as well as in reducing 
stray population issues. This is not to discount the suffering being endured by the dogs and 
cats in the process, which includes starving the dogs prior to euthanasia in pounds which to 
date remained to be a major issue time immemorial. The lack of appropriate veterinary care 
and creation of an adoption and a rehoming program aggravates the said problem. It is for 
this reason that pet-loving public and animal welfare NGOs and the public see animal pounds 
as a cruel institution with many asking for pounds to be shut down and closed. 
August 1, 2023
1:47 pm
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There is also the growing movement across the globe to achieve the UN-initiated 
Sustainability Development Goals necessarily put farm animal health and welfare as part of 
policy discussion under the Department of Agriculture, Department of Health, Food and Drug 
Administration, the NGOs and the general public’s growing attitude change towards ethical 
and responsible sourcing of food. 
Despite the continuing rise in the consciousness of the Filipino people on the welfare 
of animals and the aid from kind-hearted Filipinos and different NGOs have been pouring in 
over the years to protect and promote animal welfare, it is evident that the issue is on the 
government body who is given the responsibility to promote animal health and welfare, to 
monitor and  investigate, respond and to effectively respond to growing clamor for improved 
welfare policies and resources. The current structure of the Bureau of Animal Industry has 
shown weaknesses in responding to and in addressing the growing welfare issues and 
concerns affecting the animals. As a regulatory body for animal welfare under R.A. No. 8485, 
as amended, compliance monitoring has become a burden due to lack of dedicated and 
trained manpower and facilities. Implementation of the law has likewise been severely 
lacking as a result of the weak cooperation from the LGUS.  
This Bill aims to strengthen and fortify animal welfare standards, policies, rules and 
regulation by improving the system of program implementation, monitoring and supervision 
including adjudication and response to violations. Penalties have also been defined and 
detailed to deter individuals from violating the law.  
It is our hope that through the passage of this bill, animal welfare rules and 
regulations would be more effective as we build a society that respects both the rights of 
people and animals. After all, it is our duty to be the voice for the innocent voiceless animals. 
SALVADOR A. PLEYTO, SR.       


Republic of the Philippines 
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 
Quezon City 
NINETEENTH CONGRESS 
Second Regular Session 
HOUSE BILL NO. _________ 
Introduced by:  REP. SALVADOR A. PLEYTO, SR. 
AN ACT CREATING THE ANIMAL WELFARE BUREAU UNDER THE 
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO INSTITUTIONALIZE AND STRENGTHEN 
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ANIMAL WELFARE AND GOVERN ITS 
OPERATION AND ITS ENFORCEMENT, REVISING FOR THE PURPOSE 
REPUBLIC ACT NO.  8485, OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE  
THE ANIMAL WELFARE ACT OF THE PHILIPPINES, AND APPRORPIATING 
FUNDS THEREOF 
Be it enacted by the Senate and the 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 “Revised Animal Welfare Act of 2023”. 
Sec.2. Declaration of Policy. – As proven by modern science, animals are sentient 
beings, capable of experiencing pleasurable states, like joy, and aversive states, like pain and 
fear.  Consequently, it shall be the policy of the state to protect and promote the good welfare 
of all animals, 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 behaviours; and (5) Freedom from fear and distress. 
Sec. 3. Coverage. - This Act shall apply to all acts, 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: 
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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; or 
c. interact with or encounter stray 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 formulate rules and regulations that will ensure the promotion of animal welfare in 
the establishment, maintenance and operation of any pet shop, kennel, pound, shelter, 
slaughter houses, 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; 
g. 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; and 
i. To promote public awareness and concern for caring for stray animals and its welfare. 
 
Sec. 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 behaviour; 
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 freedom 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 conform to essential behavioral pattern; and (5) 
Freedom from fear and distress 
f. Animals shall be treated with respect and dignity throughout their lives and, when 
necessary, provided a humane death. 
 
 
Sec. 6. Definitions. – As used in this Act, the following terms shall mean: 
 
a. Animal - refers to vertebrate and invertebrate species, which may or may not be 
under the control of man, and which may be food producing, companion, labor, 
aquatic or laboratory, including birds. The term excludes human and non-
mammalian species. 
b. Animal welfare – 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 
behaviour. 
c. Animal Facility. - refers to any facility, structure, or premises used for the purpose 
of keeping, caring, breeding, rearing, holding, gaming, training, trading, treating, 
or exhibiting animals, including but not limited to farms, zoos, aviaries, apiaries, 
kennels, race tracks, cockpits, pet shops, shelters, pounds, animal rescue centers, 
airport and seaport quarantine stations, animal holding facilities, stables, livestock 
markets, stockyards, corrals, stud farms, stock farms, slaughterhouses, aquaria, 
laboratories, veterinary clinics, and veterinary hospitals. 
d. Animal fighting venture – 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 entertainment. 
e. Animal welfare enforcement officer – refers to Philippine National Police, 
National Bureau of Investigation and other law enforcement agencies, citizens’ 
groups, community organizations and other volunteers members of NGOs, 
Peoples organizations designated as such enforcement officers by the Bureau. 
f. Board  - refers to the Animal Welfare Board. 
g. Bureau – refers to the Animal Welfare Bureau. 
h. Captive Animals. - refers to animals that are confined for educational or 
recreational purposes in places such as but not limited to zoos, sanctuaries, 
including rescue centers, sea or ocean facility, and the like. 
i. Director – refers to the individual in charge of the Animal Welfare Bureau. 
j. Euthanasia - refers to the Bureau approved process or method of painless death to 
animals. 
k. Keeper – refers to any person who owns, possesses, or has control or custody over 
an animal. 
l. Local Government Unit (LGU) – refers to the Province, City or Municipalities 
m. 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, cat, fishes, rabbits, 


rodents, reptiles and birds that are either acquired locally or through importation 
under government rules and regulations. 
n. Person – refers to any individual, corporation, company, business, enterprise, 
association, partnership, syndicate, trust, or other entity. 
o. Reporter – refers to any person who reports a suspected violation of any provision 
of this Act to the proper authorities. 
p. Secretary – refers to the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture. 
q. Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) – refers to a legal action 
filed to harass, vex, exert undue pressure, or stifle any legal recourse that any 
person, institution, or the government has taken or may take in the enforcement of 
this Act. 
r. Transport Facility- Any transportation public or private, whether air, water, land 
including tricycles and the like used to transport animals to a particular 
destination. 
s. Wild animal – 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. 
 
 
The Bureau may define such other terms as may be used in the implementation of this 
Act. 
 
 
CHAPTER II. 
 
THE ANIMAL WELFARE BUREAU  
 
 
Sec. 7. Animal Welfare Bureau – The Animal Welfare Bureau is hereby created 
attached to the Department of Agriculture. As a government agency, it shall be primarily 
responsible for overseeing, supervising, regulating, enforcing, protecting, implementing and 
promoting the good welfare of all animals and shall serve as the controlling authority on all 
matters relating to animal welfare. It shall also supervise and regulate the establishment and 
operation of all animal facilities and transport of all animals, as well as ensure the prevention 
of any form of cruelty, maltreatment, torture, exploitation,  and neglect  of the animals 
 
 
The Animal Welfare Bureau shall issue animal welfare policies, standards rules and 
regulations and ensure the implementation and enforcement of animal welfare regulations, 
programs and standards through interagency coordination, programs and agreements. They 
shall be authorized to issue fines and penalties for violation of this Act and to institute seizure 
proceedings.  
 
 
Sec. 8. Composition of the Animal Welfare Bureau - The Bureau shall be headed by 
a Director who shall be appointed by the President as well as a Deputy Director. Each 
Divisions of the Bureau shall have a Division Head.  
 
 
The staffing pattern may initially be based on the following Divisions.  
 
 
 
The Director shall be responsible for the general administration and management of 
the Bureau. He/she must possess adequate knowledge, training and experience in the field of 
veterinary science and/or veterinary medicine. The Deputy Director shall be a permanent 
position shall assist the Director in the administration, operation and financial management of 
the Bureau.  


 
 
The Bureau shall initially consist of the following Divisions: 
 
 
1. Administration and Human Resources  
 
2. Policy and Planning 
 
3. Advocacy, Training and Communication 
 
4. Inspection  
 
5. Legal and Enforcement  
 
6. Adjudication   
 
7. Finance and Accounting  
 
 
The Bureau may re-organize and expand its Divisions in the future to effectively and 
fully implement the provisions of this act.  
 
 
Sec. 9.  Personnel and Staffing Pattern - Notwithstanding the provisions of existing 
laws, the Secretary  shall require the Director of the Bureau of Animal Industry, as an interim 
Director of the Bureau to submit within 30 days from the effectivity of this Act their 
recommendation on the personnel and staffing pattern of the Bureau and to submit the same 
to the Department of Budget and Management and the Civil Service Commission which shall 
include the functions of each of the named divisions. The BAI  shall recommend the duties 
and responsibilities of the Divisions.  
 
  
 
Sec. 10.  Powers and Duties of the Animal Welfare Bureau – 
 
The Animal Welfare Bureau shall have the following powers and duties: 
1. To establish a system for the effective implementation of this Act; 
2. To formulate, adopt, and issue policies, guidelines, standards, rules, and 
regulations as part of a system for the effective implementation of this Act; 
3.  To provide detailed regulations and 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; 
4. To create, in consultation with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), 
Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Civil 
Aeronautics Board (CAB), the Maritime Industry (MARINA), other 
transport regulating body or agencies, experts, and animal welfare groups, 
species-specific standards 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, taking into consideration the species of the animal 
being transported, as well as its specific needs, size, behaviour, and nature; 
4. To establish an emergency animal response and rescue system and 
mechanism to appropriately respond in cases of calamities such as but not 
limited to floods, earthquakes, and other natural disasters; 
5. To promulgate standards and guidelines for humane slaughter of farm 
animals in coordination and consultation with the National Meat 


Inspection Service,   the Local Government Units and other relevant 
government agencies; 
7. To stop, inspect vehicles or any transport system used to transport 
animals and to order the closure, stoppage of operation of any transport 
facility violating the provisions of this act, its implementing rules and 
regulations, and other regulations and standards issued for the strict 
implementation of this act ; 
8. To establish a system and regulations for the inspection of animal 
facilities, and to inspect such animal facilities to ensure compliance with 
animal welfare standards and regulations; 
10. To delegate certain powers and functions to the local government 
units, to the Regional, City and Provincial Animal Welfare Officers 
relevant and necessary for purposes of effectively implementing animal 
welfare policies, guidelines, programs and standards; 
11. To monitor compliance by the local government units of the animal 
welfare programs, standards, rules and regulations; 
12. To ensure proper coordination and partnerships with non-government 
organizations, people’s organizations and the academe for the strict 
implementation of the rules and regulations issued and for the execution of 
the agency’s programs; 
13. To formulate guidelines and qualifications related to research and 
testing on animals, ensuring that use of animals in research and testing is 
only undertaken as a last resort. 
14.To supervise and monitor the implementation of this Act and to ensure 
strict compliance. 
15. To deputize personnel from regional field units, local government 
units, non-government organizations, people’s organizations, community 
organizations and certain veterinary professionals to assist in the 
implementation of this Act. 
16. To exercise administrative adjudication, confiscation, and forfeiture 
powers, including the power to cite in contempt, in all cases of violations 
of this Act; 
17. To impose, collect, and enforce administrative sanctions such as  
(a) payment of fines,  
(b) the suspension or cancellation of existing permits or 
certifications   
(c) disqualification for future permits,  
(d) the closure of animal facilities, and/or  


(e) the confiscation and forfeiture of all animals, including 
products, 
and 
all 
paraphernalia, 
tools, 
implements 
and 
conveyances used in connection with the commission of the 
violation, and to dispose of the same in accordance with pertinent 
laws, regulations or policies on the matter. 
18. To issue appropriate adjudication procedures, rules, and regulations. 
19. To establish and maintain a database surveillance and management 
information system on animal welfare in the Philippines. 
20. To operate the Animal Welfare Fund, including collecting monies paid 
into it and utilizing monies in the account for animal welfare programs. 
21. 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. 
22. To keep records and documents pertaining to animal welfare in the 
country as well as the maintenance of surveillance and management 
information system on the animal welfare; 
23. To create and maintain a web-based registry accessible to the public of 
all the animal facilities in the country, whether public or private, which 
registry includes all collected information on each animal facility, 
including sanctions; 
24. To create a system and guidelines for the determination of 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; 
25. 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. 
26. To conduct regular as well as random inspections to ensure that the 
continuing qualifications for the release and renewal of the issued 
certifications, authorizations and permits are duly complied with and to 
impose necessary sanctions in case of non-compliance; 
27. To perform adjudicatory function relating to animal welfare issues, 
cases and violations; 
27. To create, establish and implement a national program on rewards and 
incentives for Most Animal Welfare Friendly Region, Province, City and 
Municipality; 


28. To issue other permits or certificates that it may deem necessary from 
time to time 
29. To utilize such other powers and perform such other duties and 
responsibilities which are necessarily to achieve the purposes of this Act. 
 
 
CHAPTER III 
 
THE ANIMAL WELFARE BOARD 
 
 
Sec. 11. The Animal Welfare Board - There is hereby created an Animal Welfare 
Board under the Animal Welfare Bureau which shall perform as the consultative committee to 
assist in the formulation of various animal welfare policies and guidelines, rules and 
regulations, standards as well as the development of welfare programs. It shall act as an 
advisor to the Bureau on all matters relating to the animal welfare programs, standards and 
practices.  
 
 
Sec. 12. Composition of the Board - The Animal Welfare Board shall be composed as 
follows: 
  
(1) Ex Officio Members - One representative from each of the following:  
 
 
(a) Department of Agriculture; 
 
(b) Animal Welfare Bureau; 
(c) Bureau of Animal Industry;  
(d) Biodiversity Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and 
Natural Resources (DENR); 
 
(e) Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG); 
 
(f)  Bureau of Fisheries; 
 
(g) National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) of the DA;     
 
(h) Provincial, City, Municipal  Veterinary League Association; and 
 
(i)  Department of Education 
 
 
(2) Appointive Members -   
 
 
(a) Four (4) representatives from different nationally-recognized animal
 welfare organizations with proven track records on animal welfare and with 
established programs; 
 
(b) One (1) representative from a nationally-recognized Veterinary 
Professional Association; 
 
 
(c) One Representative each from the Poultry, Livestock, Fisheries 
associations; 
 
(d) The Secretary may appoint additional members as it may deem necessary 
to 
ensure 
adequate 
representation 
of 
various 
stakeholders 
upon 
recommendation of the Board and the Bureau. 
 
 
 
Sec. 13.  Chairman of the Board - The Animal Welfare Board  shall be chaired by the 
Director of the Bureau or his/her duly designated representative. The Bureau shall also act as 
the Secretariat and  shall be responsible in calling the meetings and sending notices for such 


meetings. The secretariat shall also be responsible in records keeping and ensuring correct 
transcription of minutes of meetings. 
 
 
Sec. 14. Meetings, Quorum, Per Diems - The Board shall meet at least quarterly, or 
more often should the need arise. Nine members of the Board shall constitute a quorum, 
which shall be necessary for voting on any matters before the Board.  The Board members 
shall not receive any compensation but may receive honoraria from time to time the amount 
of which of which shall be decided by the Board. 
 
 
Sec. 15. Appointment by the Secretary - Except for the identified Government 
agencies, the other  institutional members of the Committee shall be appointed by the 
Secretary upon the endorsement of the Chief of the Bureau pursuant to the application or as 
nominated by their respective agencies/sectors. Each appointive member shall have a term of 
service of two (2) years  subject to renewal or unless earlier removed for just cause pursuant 
to the rules on the matter subject to the assessment of the  Animal Welfare Board. 
 
The procedure for removal and replacement, as well as enforceable disciplinary 
actions of members of the Board shall be established in the internal rules and regulations of 
the Board. All policies and guidelines shall be approved by the Board including its internal 
rules and regulations.  
 
CHAPTER IV 
ANIMAL WELFARE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS AND UNITS 
Sec. 16. 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; and 
 
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 Offices to effectively 
implement the provisions of this Act. Municipalities shall likewise appoint an Animal 
Welfare Officer within its Municipal Agriculture office. 
 
The Board may add other qualifications as it may deem appropriate to best serve the 
purposes of this Act. 
 
Sec. 17.  Barangay Animal Welfare Unit -  Each Barangay shall hereby be mandated 
to establish a Barangay Animal Welfare Unit similar to the Barangay Animal Health Worker. 
The BAWU shall be responsible in the local implementation of  animal health, vaccination 
programs, animal welfare education, spay and neuter as well as stray population control, in 


partnership with the Provincial, City Veterinary Office or in the case of Municipalities, the 
Municipal Agrarian Officer or Veterinary Officer when present;  
 
Sec. 18. Deputation of Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers. – The Secretary of the 
Department of Agriculture shall deputize animal welfare enforcement officers from non-
government organizations, citizens’ groups, community organizations and other volunteers 
who have undergone 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 a designated animal welfare enforcement officers in the 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, coordination 
of deputized animal welfare enforcement officers to cover the following: 
 
 
1. guidelines on the criteria and training requirements for the deputation of animal 
welfare enforcement officers 
 
2. mechanism for the supervision, monitoring and reporting of these enforcement 
officers;    
 
 
CHAPTER V 
 
BASIC ANIMAL CARE AND HANDLING GUIDELINES  
 
 
Sec. 19. 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. 20. 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. 
 
 
Sec. 21. Provision of Veterinary Medical Care for Sick, Compromised or Injured 
Animal – 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 licensed veterinarian. 
 
 
Sec. 22. Provision of Appropriate Transport Facility - Transport facilities for animals 
must be constructed, provisioned, and utilized in such a way so 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 comfort and safety of the animal appropriate to its nature and size.     
 
 
Sec. 23. Provision of Opportunity for Animals to Express Natural Behaviours 
including  Play, Provision of Enrichment Activities and Exercise - Any keeper of an animal 
must provide such animal 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 an time line in improving farm facilities to 
comply with the provisions hereof. 
 
CHAPTER VI 
 
PROHIBITED ACTS 
 
 
Sec. 24. Prohibition on Cruelty, Maltreatment, Abuse, and Exploitation of Animals. 
– 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 unsanitary animal facilities, 
shelters, or transport facilities; 
(c) killing an animal by way of electrocution or gas chamber or using any petrol 
or diesel exhaust; 
(d) using an animal in research or experiments not expressly authorized by the 
Bureau; and 
(e) Overworking an animal 
 
 
 
The Bureau may further define or declare other acts that it may consider or deem to 
constitute as animal cruelty. 
 
 
 
Sec. 25. 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 Sections 18 to 23.  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. 26. Prohibition on Killing of Animals.  – It shall be unlawful for any person to 
kill any animals other than cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, poultry, rabbits, carabao, horse.  The 
killing of pets and animals not declared as food animals for human consumption, or cause or 
procure the same to be killed is prohibited except in the following instances: 
 
(1) 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 pet animal is 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 32;  
 
(7) Humane slaughter of a farm animal, in accordance with Section 33(d). 
 
(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 Bureau. For this purpose, humane 
procedures shall mean the use of the most scientific methods available as may be determined 
by the Bureau 
 
 
Sec. 27. Prohibition on Animal Fights – It is prohibited to subject animals to fights 
such as but not limited to dog fighting, carabao or bull fighting  or horse fighting  and the 
like, not authorized or regulated by law. Any person who participates under circumstances as 
described herein shall be considered accessories in the commission of animal fighting and/or 
abetting in the commission of animal cruelty. It shall include but not 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 
purpose of sport or training. 
 
 
The prohibition on animal fights shall include but not limited to the following:  
 
(a) cause, procure, permit, encourage, promote, organise, 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; 
 
(f) attend, wager on, or otherwise patronize an animal fighting venture; or 
 
(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. 
 
Sec. 28. Prohibition on Dog Meat Trading - It shall be unlawful for any person to 
engage in the trade of dogs including 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. 29. Prohibition on Abandonment - It shall be unlawful for any keeper of an 
animal, whether temporary or permanent  to abandon such animal. 
 
 
Sec. 30. Prohibition on Ear Cropping, Tail Docking, De-Vocalization, Declawing - 
The conduct of ear cropping, tail docking, devocalization, de-clawing, 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. 
 
 
Sec. 31. Operating an animal facility without Permit/Certification - Operating any 
facility without necessary permit or certification from the Bureau is hereby prohibited.  
 
CHAPTER VII 
 
ENFORCEMENT 
 
Sec. 32. In General – The Bureau, either independently, or in cooperation with local 
government units, the registered NGOs, Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers, Philippine 
National Police, and other concerned parties, is authorized to carry out enforcement 
operations and measures to ensure compliance with the provisions of this Act and to 
eradicate, stop and prevent activities prohibited under this Act. 
 
Sec. 33. Visitorial/Inspection 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. 33. 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 officers, and other law enforcement agencies for appropriate 
action. The procedure in filing of criminal charges shall be as prescribed by the rules of 
criminal procedure contained in the Rules of Court.   
 
Sec. 34. Seizure of Effects – Any items so seized including animals, pursuant to 
arrests made for violation of any provision of this Code shall be held by any person, facility, 
organization, authorized by the Bureau, including the local government units, 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 us photographing for purposes of preserving evidence. 
 
Sec. 35. 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, relieved from the cruel situation or condition  in coordination with the 
Barangay or the Law enforcement  agencies or Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers/NGOs. 
The said enclosed facility  may be broken open subject to diligent efforts shown to contact 
owner of facility. Except in case where there is an imminent danger to the life of the animal, 
diligent effort to contact 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. 36. 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 condition and granting other necessary reliefs. The protection order shall 
be enforced by law enforcement agencies, deputized animal welfare enforcement officers or 
the Bureau. 
 
The protection orders that may be issued under this Act are the Barangay Protection 
Order (BPO), temporary protection order (TPO) and permanent protection order (PPO). A 
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 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 a 
dismissal of the case against the respondent.   
 


 
A protection order may be sought by any concerned citizen, deputized animal welfare 
officer, law enforcement officers, 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 animal(s) that are or 
were 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 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 animal welfare group who shall apply for 
the custody of said animal/s;   
g. Restitution for actual costs for the rescue, care and rehabilitation of animal/s 
subject matter of the protection order; and 
h. Such other forms 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 a multiple violation under this Act and shall be penalized accordingly. 
 
Sec. 37. Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) in the 
Enforcement 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 defense 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 affirmative defense shall be resolved within thirty (30) 
days after the summary hearing. If the court dismisses the action pursuant to the SLAPP 
affirmative defense, the court may award attorney’s fees and costs of suit, as well as damages 
under a counterclaim if such has been filed. The dismissal shall be with prejudice. 
If the court rejects the SLAPP affirmative defense, the evidence adduced during the 
summary hearing shall be treated as evidence of the parties on the merits of the case. The 
action shall proceed in accordance with the Rules of Court. 
Sec. 38. 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: 
 
a. 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 is 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; 
 
b. Presence of fresh and/or dried blood, by-products or derivatives of the animals, 
with or without the tools, equipment and/or paraphernalia derivatives, shall be a  disputable 
presumption of the killing and/or destruction of the habitat of the animal involved. 
 
CHAPTER  VIII 
 
ADJUDICATION AND AUTHORITY TO  
IMPOSE ADMINITRATIVE FINES & PENALTIES 
 
 
 
Sec. 39. Authority to Adjudicate and Administer Administrative Penalties. – The  
Bureau or their respective authorized representatives are authorized to exercise administrative 
adjudication confiscation and forfeiture powers, including the power to cite in contempt, in 
all cases of violations of this Act and may impose administrative sanctions such as payment 
of fines, and/or order the suspension or cancellation of existing permits, certifications  and 
disqualification for future permits, the closure of facilities, and/or the confiscation and 
forfeiture of all animals including products, and all paraphernalia, tools, implements   and 
conveyances used in connection with the commission of the violation, and to dispose of the 
same in accordance with pertinent laws, regulations or policies on the matter. The Bureau or 
their authorized representatives may, after due notice and hearing, cancel or suspend permits, 
clearances, agreements and/or certificates due to violation of this Act, its implementing rules 
and regulations, and/or the terms of the permits, agreements or certificates. The Bureau upon 
approval of the Secretary shall issue appropriate adjudication procedures, rule and 
regulations. 
 
 
CHAPTER IX 
 
PERMITS, CERTIFICATES AND AUTHORITY TO  
COLLECT FEES AND CHARGES  
 


 
Sec. 40. 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 10 dogs or cats combined or otherwise shall be 
considered as operating an animal facility when the following circumstances are present:  
 
 
a.  when operating and representing itself publicly as such; or 
 
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, or standards or other just causes. 
 
 
 
Sec. 41.  Mayor's Permit Requirement. - No LGU shall issue Mayor's or business 
permit to any person, association, partnership, corporation, cooperative or government 
agency or instrumentality without the presentation of 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 X 
 
OTHER ANIMAL WELFARE PROVISIONS 
 
 
 
Sec. 42. Use of Animals for Show, Media, TV, Movies or Entertainment. – 
Promoters/organizers of animals show, media or entertainment, shall obtain 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 provision 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 
has been shown to have maltreated or exposed animals to inhumane conditions prior to its 
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. 
 
 
Sec. 43. Use of animals for work -  Animals used as working animals 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 behaviour.  Working animals should not be allowed to work 


under circumstances where its health and safety will be at risk. Overworking of animals is 
hereby prohibited. Water and  appropriate shelter protecting the same from extreme weather 
condition  must be provided.  
 
 
Sec. 44. Use of animals as 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 accreditation of dogs shall be 
established by the Bureau in consultation with relevant agencies and concerned groups.  
Service dog / Guide dog shall be defined accordingly.  
 
 
Sec. 45. 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 alternative 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 a written authorization from the Bureau upon 
compliance with such guidelines and qualifications necessary to obtain such authority.  
 
 
Sec. 46. Farm Animals - The Bureau shall set out standards and guidelines in 
consultation with the stakeholders to be gradually complied with.  
 
 
Sec. 47. Transportation of 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 such 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 animal from extreme temperatures, with journeys  
limited to a 
duration as prescribed by the Bureau depending on the specie, 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 hour travel period, rest such animal off the vehicle for at least 
24 hours, providing such animal sufficient water and feed. 


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 which directly or indirectly involves or aims at a financial gain. 
 
c. No person shall transport an animal fewer than eight weeks old, a pregnant female who has 
passed through 90% of her expected gestational period, a female who has given birth in the 
past seven 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.  
 
e. Any violation of this Section shall be penalized even if the transporter has a permit to 
transport from the Bureau; 
 
f. 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. 
 
 
Sec. 48. Importation and Export of Live Animals. -  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 extreme cold climates shall be 
prohibited unless specifically authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Bureau upon 
submission of  approved care and sustainability program or plan. 
 
 
Sec. 49. Spay and Neuter and Vaccination of Stray Cats and Dogs - The Local 
Government Units 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.  
 
Sec. 50. Communication, Education and other Public Awareness Campaigns- The 
Bureau together with other agencies, NGO’s and stakeholders shall implement programs 
towards increasing awareness on animal welfare through education and various information 
awareness activities and programs.   
CHAPTER XI 
APPROPRIATION 
 
 
Sec. 51. Appropriation – The initial funding to establish the Bureau shall be taking 
from the General Appropriations of the Department of Agriculture to the extent of the amount 
of 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.  
 
 
CHAPTER XII 
 
PENALTIES  
 
 
Sec. 52. Penalties -  
 
 
a. Any person who subjects any animal to cruelty, torture, maltreatment or any of the 
prohibited acts herein shall be punished with a minimum imprisonment of 1 year and 6 
months to a maximum of three years and/or a minimum fine of P30,000 but not exceeding 
P100,000 pesos as maximum. 
 
 
b. Abandonment of animal shall be punished by a penalty of 6 months to one year and 
/or a fine not exceeding P10,000.  
 
 
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.  
 
 
c. Operating an animal facility including any animal transport facility, without the 
required permit shall be punished with a penalty of imprisonment of 6 months to a maximum 
of 1 year and/or fine not exceeding 10,000 or both such fine and imprisonment without 
prejudice to the administrative liability of the owner/operator.  
 
 
d. Failure to obtain the required permits to use animals for show, entertainment, or 
any form of media, or use animals for research and /or scientific education experiment like 
shall be punished with a minimum imprisonment of 6 months to maximum of 1 year and 6 
months and/ or fine not exceeding 30,000.  
 
 
e. If the violation is committed by a juridical person, the offender responsible thereof 
shall serve the 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 two years and one day to three years and/or a fine of 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 or more individuals; 
 
 
ii. committed by an offender who makes business out of cruelty to animal; 
 
 
iii. committed by a public officer or employee; or 
 
 
iv. where at least three animals are involved. 
 
 
In any of the foregoing situations, the offender shall suffer subsidiary imprisonment  
in case of insolvency and the inability to pay the fine.  
 


 
g. 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 fined not less than Five 
Thousand Pesos per dog and subjected to imprisonment for one year to four years.  
 
 
j. Violation of any other provisions of this code shall be penalized by  minimum 
imprisonment of  three (3) months to a maximum of 1 year and/or fine not exceeding 5,000 or 
both such fine and imprisonment;  
 
k. The liability of any person herein is without prejudice to his/her liability for any 
other offenses under another law including administrative.  
l. Any person who has been habitually convicted of a violation of this Act shall be 
permanently and perpetually disqualified from being issued any  permits or certificate to 
operate any animal facility including owning or possessing an animal/pet; 
m. The Court in its discretion may, in lieu of service in jail, require that penalties 
imposed less than one year be served by the defendant by rendering community service under 
such terms and conditions that the court may determine depending on the gravity of the 
offense.  Under this circumstance, the court 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 XIII 
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS 
 
 
Sec. 53. 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 enforcement process.    
 
 
The Fund shall be derived from fines imposed and damages awarded pursuant to 
violations of this Act, fees charged for permits, registrations, and 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. 54. 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. 
 


 
Sec. 55.  Emergency Response —The Bureau shall create and implement, in 
collaboration with the local government units 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 program 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 are 
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 animals victim of abuse, cruelty and maltreatment to 
recognized animal shelters or facilities whether public or private. 
 
Sec. 56. 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 be issued.  For wildlife, the same shall be referred to 
the DENR-BMB or their nearest regional offices. 
 
 
Local Government Pound or Shelter, Bureau-accredited animal facilities, and all 
registered animal facilities must conduct free adoption events before the holding of any 
scheduled euthanasia of custodied animals. These free adoption events must be posted on the 
city/municipal announcement board, and on any social media account of both the animal 
facility or pound and the city/municipality. The posting shall be at least thirty (30) days from 
the scheduled euthanasia; and the event must last for at least seven (7) days. 
 
Sec. 57. Role of Local Government Units and other government agencies. –Local 
government units 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 neuter 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 Animal 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. 58. Construction of the law - This Act shall be liberally construed in favor of the 
promotion and protection of the welfare of the animals.  
 
Sec. 59. Transition – During the transition within one 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.  
 
 
Sec. 60. 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. 


 
 
Sec. 61. Repealing Clause - All laws, decrees, rules and regulations inconsistent with 
the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly. 
 
 
Sec. 62. Effectivity – This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in 
the Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation. 
 
 
 
Approved.