Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City
NINETEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session
HOUSE BILL NO. _______
Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE DIVINA GRACE C. YU and
REPRESENTATIVE JEYZEL VICTORIA C. YU
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This bill seeks to repeal Republic Act No. 8485 as amended by RA.10631 by
strengthening the provisions of law relating to animal welfare and by likewise
creating the Animal Welfare Bureau, attached agency with the Department of
Agriculture.
For the past years, there has been an increase in the consciousness of the
Filipino people on the welfare of animals resulting in a massive surge of
establishments catering to animals - from veterinary clinics and hospitals, grooming,
pet hotels and pet cafes, pet friendly establishments, among others. The current
structure of the Bureau of Animal Industry however, 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 RA 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 not only respects the
rights of people but also penalizes the ill-treatment of animals. After all, we serve as
the voice for the voiceless animals that plays an important role and contribution to
human welfare.
In view of the foregoing, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
REP. DIVINA GRACE C. YU
1st District, Zamboanga del Sur
REP. JEYZEL VICTORIA C. YU
2nd District, Zamboanga del Sur
June 19, 2023
3:23 pm
8555


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City
NINETEENTH CONGRESS
Second Regular Session
HOUSE BILL NO. ________
Introduced by REPRESENTATIVE DIVINA GRACE C. YU and
REPRESENTATIVE JEYZEL VICTORIA C. YU
AN ACT
STRENGTHENING ANIMAL WELFARE IN THE PHILIPPINES CREATING FOR
THE PURPOSE THE ANIMAL WELFARE BUREAU UNDER THE DEPARTMENT
OF
AGRICULTURE
TO
INSTITUTIONALIZE
AND
STRENGTHEN
THE
IMPLEMENTATION, GOVERN ITS OPERATION AND ITS ENFORCEMENT, AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES
Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives in Congress
assembled:
CHAPTER I
TITLE, DECLARATION OF POLICY AND DEFINITION OF TERMS
Section 1. Title. - This Act shall be known as the "Revised Animal Welfare Act.”
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
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.
8555


Sec. 4. Objectives. - The State shall promote the welfare of all animals by
establishing rules, regulations, guidelines and standards and endeavor 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;
i.
To promote public awareness and concern for caring for 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 behavior;
c. Animals should be cared for in ways that minimize fear, pain, stress, and
suffering;
d. Conservation and management of animal populations should be humane,
socially responsible, and scientifically prudent;
e. Protection of animal habitat is an animal welfare consideration;
f.
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;


g. 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 domesticated vertebrate and invertebrate species under the
control of man, 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 wellbeing of
animals. It includes, but 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;
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 and 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 Provinces, Cities 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 Division of the Bureau shall have a Division Head.
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, and the staffing pattern may initially be
based on, 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 Authority (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,
behavior, and nature;
5. 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;


6. 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;
9. 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;
10. To monitor compliance by the local government units of the animal welfare
programs, standards, rules and regulations;
11. To ensure proper coordination and tie ups with non-government organizations,
people's organizations and the academe for the strict implementation of the
rules and regulations issued;
12. 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;
13. To supervise and monitor the implementation of this Act and to ensure strict
compliance;
14. To deputize personnel from regional field units, local government units,
nongovernment
organizations,
people's
organizations,
community
organizations
and
certain
veterinary
professionals
to
assist
in
the
implementation of this Act;
15. To exercise administrative adjudication, confiscation, and forfeiture powers,
including the power to cite in contempt, in all cases of violations of this Act; 16.
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.
17. To issue appropriate adjudication procedures, rules, and regulations;
18. To
establish
and
maintain
a
database
surveillance
and
management
information system on animal welfare in the Philippines;
19. To operate the Animal Welfare Fund, including collecting monies paid into it
and utilizing monies in the account for animal welfare programs;
20. 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;


21. 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;
22. To create and maintain a web-based registry accessible to the public of all the
animal facilities in the country, whether public oi private, which registry
includes all collected information on each animal facility, including sanctions;
23. 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;
24. 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;
25. 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 noncompliance;
26. 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;
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
association;
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;
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.
Section 17. Barangay Animal Welfare Unit. - Each Barangay shall hereby be
mandated to establish a Barangay Animal Welfare Unit (BAWU) 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
nongovernment 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 (NBl) and other law enforcement agencies shall designate
animal welfare enforcement officers who shall assist in the implementation of this Act.
ln 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 behavior 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 behavioral 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 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 behaviors including
play, provision of enrichment activities and exercise. - Any keeper of an animal must
provide such animal regular opportunities to express species-specific natural
behaviors, for play and exercise in an area of sufficient space, and for stimulation
through environmental enrichment activities to promote their health and welfare. The
Bureau in consultation with stakeholders shall implement a 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 18-23. 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 animal 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.
ln 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 bullfighting 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. ln 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, 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;
f.
Attend, wager on, or otherwise patronize an animal fighting venture;


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 for their meat for 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. 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. ln General. - The Bureau, either independently, or in cooperation with local
government units, the registered NGOs, Animal Welfare Enforcement Officers and
the 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. 34. 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. 35. 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. 36. 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. 37. 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;
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. 38. 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. 39. 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 ADMINISTRATIVE FINES & PENALTIES
Sec. 40. 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. 41. 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;
b. when it has been securing donations or effecting rescue under the
definition of this code.
As such, 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. 42. 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. 43. 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 list 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 44. 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 behavior.
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 45. 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. 46. 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. 47. 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. 48. 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:
1. Ensure that such animal is fit to travel and checked regularly during
the voyage, at least once every six hours;
2. 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;
3. Ensure that vehicle loading and unloading facilities are constructed
and maintained to avoid injury and suffering;
4. Provide sufficient floor space and height allowance so as to allow
such animal to lie down, stand up, fully stretch its limbs, and tum
around freely without any impediment; and
5. 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. 49. 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. 50. 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 program$ 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. 51. 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. 52. Appropriation. - The initial funding to establish the Bureau shall be taken
from the General Appropriations of the Department of Agriculture 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. 53. 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
₱30,000 but not exceeding ₱100,000 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 ₱10,000; 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 ₱250,000.00 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;
ii.
committed by a public officer or employee; or
iii.
where at least three animals are involved.
ln 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;
h. 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;
i.
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;
j.
The liability of any person herein is without prejudice to his/her liability for any
other offenses under another law including administrative;
k. 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;
l.
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. 54. 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. 55. 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. 56. 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. 57. 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.
Sec. 58. 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. 59. Construction of the law. - This Act shall be liberally construed in favor of the
promotion and protection of the welfare of the animals.


Sec. 60. 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. 61. 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. 62. Repealing Clause. - All laws, decrees, rules and regulations inconsistent
with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.
Sec. 63. 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,