PETA offers P20,000 reward vs. perpetrators in Cavite pet poisoning

MANILA — Animal welfare group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia is offering a P20,000 reward for information that could lead to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the suspected poisoning that killed 12 dogs and cats in Alfonso, Cavite.

The incident involved eight dogs and four cats reportedly found dead in Barangay Kaytitinga Tres.

Police are investigating the deaths after rice mixed with a blue substance was reportedly discovered scattered in the neighborhood. 

Authorities suspect deliberate poisoning and are working to identify those responsible.

In a statement, PETA Asia said it was offering the reward to encourage witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward.

“Anyone who deliberately poisons dogs and cats poses a danger to every animal in the neighborhood, and leaving poison where animals can reach it can have deadly consequences,” PETA Asia President Jason Baker said.

“PETA is urging anyone with information to speak up now, before another animal is harmed, so authorities can identify whoever did this and hold them accountable,” he added.

PETA Asia urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the Alfonso Municipal Police Station.

They may also contact PETA through Jana Sevilla via 09566617115 or JSevilla@PETAAsiaPacific.com or Ashley Fruno via 09186690829 or AshleyF@PETAAsiaPacific.com. 

The group said the P20,000 reward would be given for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible.

The incident comes amid continuing concerns over animal cruelty and the need to hold perpetrators accountable under the country’s animal welfare laws.

Under Republic Act No. 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631, acts of cruelty against animals are punishable by fines and imprisonment, with penalties depending on the nature and severity of the offense.

Authorities have yet to identify the person or persons behind the suspected poisoning.