Bontoc, Mountain Province — Authorities in Mountain Province have formally referred an animal cruelty case involving a dog named Axle to the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, marking a significant development after days of investigation and repeated attempts to meet prosecutorial requirements, police officials said.
The case was officially endorsed on December 15, 2025, for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631. The referral follows sustained investigative efforts by the Sadanga Municipal Police Station (MPS), according to a statement released by Mountain Province Police Provincial Office (MPPPO) Director Police Colonel Marcelo B. Polig.
Police said the complaint had been filed twice previously but was not accepted due to insufficient evidence. Rather than abandoning the case, investigators continued gathering additional documentation and testimony to strengthen their findings. The third submission was eventually accepted, clearing the way for prosecutorial review.
“The process was challenging, but the investigators remained committed to building a case that could stand on legal grounds,” Polig said, noting that perseverance by local police played a critical role in advancing the case.
The MPPPO said it also provided support to ensure the complaint was legally sound. Provincial police coordinated with judges, prosecutors, private legal practitioners, and lawyers from the Philippine National Police to seek guidance and legal opinions during the case buildup.
Beyond law enforcement, the case drew support from animal welfare advocates, volunteers, and organizations who assisted in raising awareness and offering technical input. Police officials said these groups are welcome to conduct information campaigns and educational activities in the province to help communities better understand animal welfare laws and prevent similar incidents.
Authorities emphasized that the case extends beyond a single incident, framing it as part of broader efforts to uphold accountability and reinforce protections for animals under Philippine law.
“This was not only about resolving a complaint, but about affirming that acts of cruelty will be addressed through legal means,” Polig said.
The Provincial Prosecutor’s Office is expected to determine the next legal steps following its evaluation of the case.
