• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Mayor Alfredo Benitez has proposed the allocation of P10 million for the construction of an animal shelter as the Sangguniang Panlungsod approved the Animal Welfare Ordinance of Bacolod.
The P10 million is part of the P525 million fund initially allocated for the improvement/rehab of the city markets but which Benitez sought to be reapportioned to other projects, and now awaiting action from the SP.
“With the Animal Welfare Ordinance, we ensure the protection and dignity of animals in our community, fostering a more compassionate and responsible society,” Councilor Celia Matea Flor stressed upon the final approval of her ordinance.
The ordinance “ensures the protection and promotion of the welfare of all animals found within Bacolod, whether wild or domesticated, which are kept, bred, treated, trained either as objects of trade or as household pets.”
It mandates each barangay to establish an animal welfare desk to ensure that those reporting incidents of animal cruelty and neglect may receive proper guidance and assistance, Flor said.
Any resident who has witnessed a case of animal cruelty may report it to the animal welfare desk, and depending on the gravity, the officer in charge shall record the incident, prepare a witness affidavit detailing the incident of animal cruelty, and take necessary action, including the intervention of barangay officials, referring the report to the City Veterinarian’s Office, or to the police.
The ordinance, passed on third and final reading Sept. 18 and co-authored by all other members of the SP, encourages barangays to establish and maintain an animal shelter to cater to the needs of stray, abandoned, or abused animals found within their area.
It also provides for the adoption and rehoming of animals, and prospective adopters will be screened to ensure that the animals are placed in responsible and caring homes. “Any violation of this ordinance shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by existing city and national laws governing animal welfare.” | CGC
