Stray animals have been a priority of the city administration because of the possible re-emergence of animal-borne diseases.
In a statement, Fernando said she aims to make Marikina a stray animal-free city. To date, the Animal Protection and Control Office (APCO) which is responsible for the monitoring, prevention, apprehension and education of pet owners in Marikina, has apprehended about 424 animals in June alone. Statistics show the following: About 345 or 83 percent came from villages and subdivisions; 12 percent or 60 animals were from the community or resettlement area, while the remaining five percent came from national roads or major thoroughfares.
However, Fernando said she was fully aware of the law which protect animals. She initiated a program which allows capable Marikina residents to adopt apprehended animals temporarily in the city pound. The program has the full cooperation of the Philippine Animal and Welfare Society (PAWS).
Meanwhile, the Marikina Police Station has launched "Text Mo… Kaligtasan N’yo Sagot Ko" which has two main features: on the spot reporting and intelligence or information gathering.
Superintendent Cipriano Querol, officer-in-charge of the Marikina police, stressed that Text Mo… provides the public with a mechanism to relay their information.
People asking for police assistance should indicate their name for verification by the responding unit. Messages should be sent to cel. no. 0919-3032299. The community can also send suggestions or ideas in solving crimes, Querol said.