THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE in Region 11 (DA-11) has initiated a 10-day training for the intensified implementation of Republic Act 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998.
The 10-day animal welfare enforcement training, which began on Monday, is participated in by representatives from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and animal rights advocates.
It aims to train participants on the legal basis, roles and responsibilities, coverage and scope, and limits of the law.
DA-11 Director Ricardo Oñate Jr. said he hopes the training would address the numerous complaints on animal cruelty and irresponsible pet ownership.
“Since it is a law and DA has no police powers, we have to designate animal welfare enforcement officers (AWEO) to take the necessary actions,” Oñate said.
Under the law, AWEO shall act or respond by coordinating with the PNP, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other law enforcement agencies and LGUs regarding matters relating to the arrest and apprehension of animal welfare violators except in instances where a warrantless arrest is justified.
Oñate said the AWEO will also assist DA or other appropriate agencies in the inspection and monitoring of animal facilities including transportation. AWEO is also tasked to refer rescued animals to BAI registered animal shelters, clinics, government animal facilities and the like, he added.
In July 2018, Davao City became the first local government unit in the country to establish animal welfare desks in each police precinct to address issues on animal violence and eliminate the dog meat trade. (By Cherry Mhae Palicte)
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