PAWS urges nationwide review of pet cremation services after 29 animal remains found in Bulacan

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 03, 2026

Photo courtesy: Multiple Sources

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is calling for tighter oversight of pet cremation services nationwide following the discovery of 29 dead dogs and cats in Bulacan, amid allegations that their owners had paid for cremations that were never carried out.

The remains of 26 dogs and three cats were found in plastic bags in a vacant lot in San Jose del Monte City, prompting complaints from grieving pet owners and an investigation into a crematorium based in Bacoor, Cavite.

PAWS wants authorities to examine the operations of pet aftercare businesses, including their permits and compliance with sanitation, environmental and consumer protection requirements. The group warned that the alleged deception raises serious questions about accountability in the industry.

PAWS explains legal options for pet owners

The animal welfare group said the improper disposal of pets that were already dead when entrusted to a crematorium does not automatically constitute animal cruelty under Republic Act No. 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631.

However, pet owners who were allegedly misled into paying for cremation services may have grounds to pursue fraud complaints.

PAWS pointed to Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code, which covers estafa committed through fraudulent representations.

The organization said affected families should keep receipts, cremation certificates, photographs and communications with the service provider. Such records could help investigators determine whether customers paid for services that were falsely represented as completed.

PAWS also encouraged complainants to seek legal assistance and work together in pursuing accountability.

Bacoor crematorium ordered closed

Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla ordered the closure of Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium on October 31 following complaints involving the discovered remains.

The mayor also directed police to investigate the establishment and gather evidence for possible charges.

During discussions with local officials and affected owners, the crematorium’s operator reportedly failed to provide sufficient documentation confirming that the animals entrusted to the business had been cremated.

Authorities are still determining who disposed of the remains and whether they were connected to the services purchased by complainants.

The crematorium’s closure does not establish criminal liability, which remains subject to investigation and the legal process.

National investigation underway

The investigation has also reached the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

On November 2, NBI Director Melvin Matibag ordered several divisions of the bureau to examine complaints involving the Bacoor crematorium and the alleged failure to provide paid cremation services.

The inquiry adds to the investigation initiated by local authorities following the discovery in Bulacan.

Meanwhile, calls for broader inspections have grown as animal welfare advocates question whether existing monitoring is sufficient to prevent similar incidents.

The controversy has also raised concerns over possible violations of waste disposal and sanitation regulations, separate from any fraud allegations involving pet owners.

Respect for pets beyond their lives

Beyond the possible legal violations, PAWS emphasized the emotional harm experienced by families who entrusted their pets to aftercare providers.

For these owners, cremation was intended to provide a respectful farewell to animals they had cared for as companions and family members.

PAWS maintains that the treatment of deceased animals and the honesty of businesses handling their remains deserve closer scrutiny.

Local police and the NBI are continuing their investigations, while affected owners are being encouraged to submit evidence supporting their complaints.