(AFP / file photo)
MANILA, Philippines — An animal welfafe group lamented the death of stray animals, allegedly due to poisoning, inside a sprawling private cemetery in Paranaque City.
According to a Facebook post by Kay Alba of Humans for Animals PH, the alleged poisoning incident at the Manila Memorial Park was reported to them on October 18 by individuals who chose to remain anonymous.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the cemetery management said it will take immediate action and investigate the matter.
The stray animals experienced similar symptoms, which included tremors, before they eventually died, Alba said.
“We do not have the final count, but many animals died the same way, all at the same time. Imagine them thinking that they would be fed, only to realize that it was their last meal. Imagine chemicals being poured into their bodies. Imagine them slowly dying of pain caused by people they thought they could trust. Just in time for Undas,” Alba said.
Manila Memorial Park’s statement
Below is cemetery management’s statement posted on its social media page:
“Therefore, we assure you that we are taking immediate action to further investigate the reports made in the social media posts. We have been closely working with the City Government of Parañaque and the City Veterinarian’s Office to help us in addressing this issue immediately and effectively—For a more humane and safe transfer of these innocent animals,” it said.
The act of animal cruelty shown in the videos online, the management added, goes against the “values and principles” of the organization, and the cemetery management is committed to resolving the issue with the utmost urgency.
“We express our sincerest apologies for the disturbing incidents highlighted in the social media posts. We thank you for your understanding and giving us an opportunity to address this matter promptly,” the cemetery management added.