(Content warning: This story contains mentions of animal cruelty.)
John Arcilla and the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) are taking a stand against recent instances of neglect in pet aftercare.
Photo: John Arcilla, Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS)/Instagram
On November 1, 2026, the Dekada Award-winning actor and Heneral Luna star took to social media to share his views on the incident involving a pet crematorium in Bacoor City, Cavite, and the remains of 29 deceased pets that were improperly disposed of along San Jose del Monte City in Bulacan.
John Arcilla’s Statement
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As a fur parent, Arcilla recalls raising 11 dogs that were cremated after their passing. He stated, “By God’s grace, they all passed away due to old age. Some got sick, but certainly because of old age as well. So, how can I confirm if all those urns contain the remains of my rightful fur babies?”
He then emphasized the need to hold investigations on all pet crematoriums and their capabilities to provide services as such: “KAILANGAN ma-investigate lahat ng pet crematoriums at ma-double-check ang kanilang facilities kung able and capable ba silang mag-operate as crematoriums. Kung hindi at kahina-hinala ang kanilang operations, DAPAT IPA-CLOSE ITO.”
Arcilla empathizes and stands with fur parents who’ve also grieved the loss of their fur babies, reminding them of their rights to proper pet aftercare. In light of the recent acts of negligence, he added, “HINDI ITO OVERREACTION. We pay a good sum for these services. For the love of our pets, whom we consider members of our families… Sorry, pero hindi kami maghihinala kung walang mangyayaring ganito.”
Arcilla also tagged PAWS, the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF Animal Rescue), the Pawssion Project Foundation, and Senator Kiko Pangilinan in his statement. Leila de Lima and Win Gatchalian, among other public figures, also voiced out their concerns.
What PAWS Advises
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In addition to Arcilla’s sentiments, PAWS has urged the affected pet owners to take legal action under Article 315(2) (a) of the Revised Penal Code, stating that the cremation service’s negligence warrants thorough examination and could count as estafa, by means of grave distrust and deceit. The crematorium said to be involved has since been permanently shut down, but various animal welfare groups continue to seek justice for the case’s victims.
“The trust of grieving pet parents must never be exploited,” PAWS underscored. In another statement, they advised, “We urge affected pet parents to preserve their receipts, cremation certificates, communications, photographs, and other evidence, and to seek legal assistance in filing the appropriate complaint.”
PAWS has partnered with its fellow advocacy programs to monitor investigations, provide free legal support, and offer extensive pet aftercare for the affected fur parents. In one of several recent statements, the group also called on multiple government agencies to get involved.
What Can Filipinos Do to Help?
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Even if you don’t own pets, the incident itself, along with Arcilla’s and PAWS’ calls to action, should be more than enough reason not to turn a blind eye to the affected fur parents and their grievances. Though we can’t erase the emotional harm they’ve endured, we can still take the initiative not to let anyone sweep this issue under the rug without a proper resolution.
Beyond amplifying existing statements, you can use your platforms to connect with the country’s leading animal welfare advocates, spread the word, and promote their charitable initiatives. Among these change-makers is Dr. Glenn Albert Almera, also known as Doc Gab, an award-winning veterinarian and content creator who has successfully partnered with a pet afterlife service for testing ashes.
If your loved ones are also fur parents or have recently lost a pet, you can help them connect with pet services that take extra steps to ensure animals’ safety throughout their final journeys. For instance, Pets in Peace in Taguig is extending free pet cremation services to the incident’s victims.
Staying informed about new animal protection policies is also worth practicing. Besides the Animal Welfare Enforcement Act, the recently proposed Animal Life Advocacy and Guardianship Act (ALAGA), also known as House Bill No. 11495, has been raised to help Filipinos learn more about their pets’ rights and their responsibilities as owners.
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What are your thoughts on the recent cases and statements regarding animal welfare and neglect? Let us know in the comments below.
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