Tax incentive proposed for people who adopt stray animals

Stray cats caught in Barangay San Jose, Dasmariñas City, are found starving in a cage at a farm converted into a pound by the village chief. (Photo courtesy of YVETTE MAYO)

A lawmaker has proposed a measure that will provide tax perks to people who adopt stray and impounded animals, particularly cats and dogs, to protect their welfare.

“The Philippines has made significant progress in protecting animal rights, with strong laws against animal cruelty and a general attitude of kindness toward animals,” Cavite Rep. Crispin Diego Remulla said in his House Bill (HB) No. 10120.

However, he cited a report by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), which highlighted the “critical issue” of homeless animals in the country.

According to Peta, “while many dogs and cats are struggling to survive on the streets, municipal pounds euthanize hundreds every month.”

“To address the problem of stray animal overpopulation, there is a pressing need for a solution that encourages adoption,” the lawmaker said.

READ: Animal pound in Cavite found starving cats to death

According to Remulla, his bill aims to “safeguard the welfare of all animals, including those that are strays or in shelters, by ensuring their needs are met and promoting incentives for their adoption.”

Under the measure, all local government units will be tasked with developing and implementing animal adoption programs by setting up adoption centers, pet fairs, and incentive offers.

“Adoption of impounded and stray animals shall be considered a tax incentive for a percentage of the real property tax of the adoptive fur parent,” the bill stated.

To help them claim the incentive, local governments will issue a certificate of adoption in line with the guidelines to be provided by the Bureau of Animal Industry for the program.

In addition to this, corporations that promote the adoption of impounded and stray animals among their employees may apply for tax deductions on expenses incurred. They are also encouraged to establish pet-friendly policies that promote responsible pet ownership, such as pet insurance, pet care services, and pet-friendly workspaces.

HB 10120 will further tap the Department of Agriculture to work with the Department of the Interior and Local Government in crafting the implementing guidelines.