Award-winning actor John Arcilla has raised doubts over the authenticity of the ashes he received for his 11 deceased dogs following the discovery of 29 animal remains dumped in a vacant lot in Bulacan.
Arcilla, whose pets passed away from old age or illness, stated that the incident has shattered his trust in pet aftercare services and sparked fears that commercial crematoriums may not be fulfilling the services that grieving owners pay for.
In response to the scandal, the actor used social media to demand a nationwide investigation into pet crematoriums, calling on authorities to inspect facilities, shut down operators with questionable practices, and hold wrongdoers accountable.
”HINDI ITO OVERREACTION,” Arcilla stressed, pointing out that pet owners pay a considerable amount for these services because they consider their animals members of their families.
The controversy erupted after authorities found the remains of 26 dogs and three cats stuffed inside plastic bags along New Town Street in Barangay Minuyan Proper, San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan. Local authorities later retrieved and identified 22 dogs and three cats, with several owners recognizing their pets through photos and descriptions shared online.
The case has been traced to AhJay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium, an establishment operating out of Bacoor, Cavite. During a dialogue between the business owner and over 30 affected pet owners, Bacoor officials reported that the facility failed to provide valid documentation and CCTV footage verifying that the requested cremations were performed.
Furthermore, the owner could not guarantee that the ashes returned to grieving families genuinely belonged to their animals.
In light of the violations, Bacoor Mayor Strike Revilla ordered the immediate closure of the establishment pending further investigation.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) encouraged aggrieved pet owners to file legal complaints, noting that the fraudulent handling of cremation services could amount to estafa under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code. PAWS also advised owners to secure receipts, certificates, photos, and messages to strengthen their cases.