Man arrested for allegedly stabbing dog, attacking responding cop in Taguig

MANILA — A 34-year-old man was arrested in Taguig City after allegedly attacking a dog with a kitchen knife and assaulting a responding police officer on October 31, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

The incident happened along JP Rizal Extension in Barangay Cembo after barangay personnel from Northside sought police assistance over the reported attack on the dog.

Responding officers from Sub-Station 11 of the Taguig City Police Station joined barangay personnel in tracking down the suspect.

During the pursuit, the man allegedly threw a large rock at the responders and attempted to stab one of the police officers, causing physical injuries, according to the PNP.

Police eventually subdued and arrested him, recovering a 15-inch kitchen knife at the scene.

The dog survived the attack and was rescued before being returned to its owner. The suspect and the injured officer were brought to the Taguig-Pateros District Hospital for medical treatment. The suspect remained under medical observation while in police custody.

Investigators are preparing complaints against the suspect for alleged violations of Republic Act 8485, as amended by RA 10631, or the Animal Welfare Act, as well as direct assault, disobedience to a person in authority, and alarms and scandals under the Revised Penal Code.

Under the Animal Welfare Act, penalties depend on the severity of the animal’s injuries and the circumstances of the offense.

If an animal survives but sustains severe injuries that impair its ability to survive independently, offenders may face imprisonment of one year and one day to one year and six months and/or a fine of up to P50,000.

If the animal dies, the penalty increases to one year and six months to two years in prison and/or a fine of up to P100,000. Cases involving syndicates, public officers or illegal commercial animal cruelty may carry up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to P250,000.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said incidents of animal cruelty should be reported and dealt with under the law.

“Acts of cruelty against defenseless animals must never be dismissed as minor offenses. The PNP will ensure that such incidents receive appropriate police action and that perpetrators are held accountable under the law,” Nartatez said.

He also urged the public to report cases of animal abuse to authorities.