ANGELES CITY, Pampanga — Compassion took center stage in Angeles City as the City Veterinary Office hosted “One Paw at a Time,” a community-wide adoption and pet care event aimed at promoting animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and rabies prevention.
Held at the Infinity Amphitheater in Barangay Pulung Maragul, the event drew fur parents, animal lovers, barangay officials, and local advocates under the leadership of Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II. The gathering offered a full day of free services, including rabies vaccinations, deworming, veterinary consultations, and on-site pet adoptions.
A key highlight of the event was the successful adoption of eight rescued animals, locally referred to as Malasakit na Angeleño, who found new homes with responsible pet owners. Organizers said the adoptions reflected the city’s broader commitment to extending care and compassion to all living beings.
To further engage attendees, a raffle was held, adding to the festive atmosphere and encouraging greater community participation. The program also recognized animal welfare officers and barangay partners for their sustained efforts in advancing public education, rabies control, and responsible pet ownership initiatives.
The City Veterinary Office, headed by Dr. Mario Samson Jr., was also cited for its leadership in animal welfare, being the sole awardee in Region 3 recognized as a Model Dog Pound and Shelter. Angeles City’s No-Kill Dog Pound has been acknowledged for its innovative and humane implementation of the Rabies Program, supporting the regional goal of achieving a rabies-free Central Luzon by 2030.
Organizers extended their gratitude to the event’s sponsors, including Univet Nutrition & Animal Healthcare Company, VetMate Farma Corporation, Zoetis Pet Care Philippines, Systems Plus College Foundation, Petsologist, Vet Precision Animal Health Center, RC Vet Products & Agri Inc., and Pet Royals Animal Hospital, whose support helped make the initiative possible.
The Angeles City local government encouraged residents interested in adopting pets to visit the City Veterinary Office, underscoring that programs like “One Paw at a Time” embody the Angeleño spirit of compassion, responsibility, and commitment to public service and animal welfare.
