The Animal Welfare Act of 1998 was a significant milestone in protecting animals in the Philippines. But more than two decades later, the law needs an update. A new proposal in Congress aims to modernize the act—making it more inclusive, enforceable, and responsive to today’s challenges.

🐶 What’s Changing Under the Proposed Law?

The bill, filed by Rep. Brian Poe of the FPJ Panday Bayanihan party-list, introduces critical improvements to the existing law:

✅ Clearly defines what qualifies as an “animal,” eliminating legal grey areas

✅ Expands protections to include stray animals, working animals, farm animals, and wildlife

✅ Enforces stricter penalties for abuse, especially for organized and repeat offenders

You can read more about the proposed bill here.

🐾 Why These Revisions Are Crucial

The current Animal Welfare Act is limited in scope and language. Without clearer definitions, many animal cruelty cases remain unresolved or unenforceable. Rep. Poe’s revisions would give authorities and animal advocates the tools they need to act swiftly and decisively.

This updated bill ensures:

✅ Legal protection for all animals

✅ Greater accountability for those who harm them ✅ A justice system better equipped to respond to modern animal welfare issues

💬 What You Can Do

✔ Stay informed about legislative changes

✔ Support efforts to strengthen animal protection laws

✔ Share this message to raise awareness

“We must update our laws to reflect the current realities and challenges in animal protection.” – Rep. Brian Poe

📢 Let’s stand for stronger animal protection. Support the updated Animal Welfare Act today.

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