An inaugural ₱10 million budget has been allocated in the proposed 2026 national budget for the Animal Welfare Supervision and Accreditation Program, a move Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said will professionalize animal welfare enforcement and strengthen support for legitimate rescue groups.
Pangilinan said the program aims to improve the humane and safe care of animals in shelters and rescue facilities.
“Layunin ng programang ito ang mapalawak ang pagtingin at pag-alaga sa mga animal rescues o nasa shelters ng makatao at sa ligtas na paraan. Susuportahan nito ang mga legit at gumaganang animal welfare orgs,” he said in a statement.
As a member of the Bicameral Conference Committee on Finance, Pangilinan has been involved in finalizing the 2026 budget.
He also recalled his role in strengthening animal protection laws, having sponsored the 2012 amendment to the Animal Welfare Act that increased penalties for cruelty and neglect.
Reflecting on years of advocacy, Pangilinan underscored the importance of proper oversight and enforcement.
“Binabalik tayo sa lupa ng mga karanasang ito tuwing may policy debate — binabalik sa araw-araw na responsibilidad at pagmamahal. Kasama ang tamang pangangasiwa at akreditasyon, naaalagaan natin ang mga hayop, nasusuportahan natin ang mga legit na rescuers, at nagiging mas patas at consistent ang pagpapatupad ng batas,” he said.
The initiative comes amid renewed public concern following recent animal cruelty cases, including the killing of an American Bully dog named Axle in Mountain Province.
Authorities have since filed charges against the suspect for violating the Animal Welfare Act, highlighting the need for stronger, more consistent enforcement.