Foreigner faces charges for killing cat in Makati

National

CHARGES will be filed against a foreign national, who was caught on security camera fatally kicking a cat in Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

The incident was captured by a security camera.

The violent act became viral on social media after animal welfare group Compassion and Responsibility for Animals (CARA) Welfare Philippines sought help from the public to identify the foreigner who attacked the community cat named Ken.

The Makati City Police said charges will be filed against the man for violating Republic Act No. 8485, also known as the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631.

"The suspect was captured in a CCTV footage committing an act of animal cruelty at approximately 8:18 a.m. on Jan. 4, 2025, in the Ayala Triangle area, Makati City. The footage shows the suspect kicking a stray cat, resulting in its death, in clear violation of the law," the Makat police said in a statement.

"According to an excerpt report for blotter from Barangay Bel-Air, OIC William Ontoy and Makati INFRA Security Patrol members SG Jerome S. Bayaras and SG Cano responded to a report of animal cruelty and consequently coordinated with the Makati City Police for further investigation.

Two residents, who witnessed the act, declined to file a complaint but the Makati police will act as the nominal complainant.

"The Makati City Police reaffirms its commitment to uphold the law and protect the rights and welfare of all living creatures, as mandated by law. Therefore, acts of cruelty against animals will not be tolerated, and violators will definitely be held accountable for their actions," Makati Police chief Col. Jean Dela Torre said.

According to CARA Welfare, the cat was resting when a foreigner e walking around Ayala Triangle Garden kicked “Ken.”

"Under Republic Act No. 8485 (Animal Welfare Act of 1998) as amended by RA 10631, acts of cruelty, abuse, and killing of animals are punishable by fines and imprisonment. This brutal act must not go unpunished. Violence against animals is unacceptable, and those who commit such acts pose a danger to both animals and society," CARA Welfare said.

"We refuse to let this innocent life be forgotten. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED. Help us hold the perpetrator accountable and ensure that no other community animal suffers the same fate.”

The group said a substantial monetary reward will be given to anyone who could provide information that would lead to the identity of the foreigner.