NBI to file raps vs Cavite pet crematorium

MANILA, Philippines —  The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will file six cases before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against a pet crematorium in Bacoor, Cavite, after finding evidence that the business allegedly buried animals entrusted to it for cremation.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag said yesterday that the six cases involve pet owners who have come forward to file complaints, out of 25 identified customers whose animals were reportedly dumped in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

“We already have sufficient evidence to file the cases before the prosecution, and the evidence is strong,” Matibag said during a press briefing.

He said investigators established that Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium had been sending animals to a crematorium in San Jose del Monte because it did not have the equipment to carry out the cremations in Bacoor.

The couple operating the Bulacan facility voluntarily gave sworn statements to the NBI, with the assistance of their lawyer. They reportedly said they buried the animals because the promised cremation equipment had not been delivered.

Investigators have identified three dumping sites in San Jose del Monte, Matibag said, adding that the ashes supposedly returned to pet owners were not actually produced through cremation.

The NBI is also looking into the possible liability of other people and how the Bacoor business was able to secure permits and operate for more than a year despite its alleged lack of cremation facilities.

Matibag said the bureau was preparing to seek the issuance of an immigration lookout bulletin order against a primary person involved to prevent that person from leaving the country.

He urged other affected pet owners to come forward, assuring them that the NBI would provide assistance if they feared intimidation.

Aside from possible estafa, investigators are looking into violations of the Consumer Act and health and sanitation laws, Matibag said.

Accreditation needed

In San Fernando, Pampanga 1st district Rep. Carmelo Lazatin Jr. wants all pet crematoriums operating or intending to operate in municipalities and cities to secure accreditation from the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI), through House Bill No. 11784 filed Wednesday.

To be known as the “Pet Crematorium Accreditation Act,” HB 11784 states that no city or municipality shall issue or renew the business permit of a pet crematorium unless the applicant presents proof of valid DA-BAI accreditation, along with all other permits, clearances, registration, and authorizations required under applicable national and local laws.

“Pets are not just domesticated animals. They become part of the family and beloved by their owners, and it is just right that they are accorded proper burial or cremation services when they pass away,” Lazatin said.

–  Ric Sapnu