‘Animal cruelty’

CEBU, Philippines —  A 23-year-old man will be facing charges for animal cruelty after he allegedly splashed hot water on a dog and a cat at Teves Compound in Barangay Mambaling, Cebu City past 9 a.m. on Sunday, February 19, 2023.

Police Major Jonathan Taneo, chief of Mambaling Police Station, confirmed that the suspect, Jason Fuentes, a native of Toledo City, who is temporarily residing in Barangay Mambaling in Cebu City, admitted to the police that he committed the act.

Gina Lusido, owner of the animals, will file a formal complaint against the suspect which will be the basis for the filing of charges against Fuentes for violation of Republic Act 8485 this Monday, February 20.

Taneo said that the suspect usually visits his father, a taxi driver, who parks at the said compound. The area is used as a parking space, as well resting and eating area for drivers.

Taneo said that Fuentes allegedly has a ‘habit’ of doing the illegal activity since he was also allegedly seen throwing hot water to stray cats a week before doing the same act to the dog.

“Before daw na gibubuan ang iro, naa na daw na instance sa una nga namubo na siya og iring nawala ang balahibo sa liog, unya karon ang iro na hinoon iyang giboboan og init nga tubig mao to gireklamo siya sa tag-iya," said Taneo.

The suspect usually gets hot water from a water dispenser there.

Taneo clarified that the throwing of hot water to the stray cat happened a week ago. But it was only reported to them on the same day that the dog was abused. As a result, both animals sustained burns in their bodies.

Following the incident, the owners immediately went to the Mambaling Police Station and reported the incident, which resulted in the immediate arrest of the suspect.

Taneo further reminded the public that animal cruelty is a criminal act and anyone proven to be responsible for committing the crime could end up in jail.

“Maayo nga mainform sila nga naa tay balaod against ana which is ang RA 8485 nga pwede sila mapriso ana. Remind lang nato sila ana nga dili magbuhat og anything nga cruel sa bisag unsa nga klase nga animal sa palibot,” Taneo added.  – JMD (FREEMAN)