See it? Stop it.

The statistics are staggering and the reality is unacceptable. In the Philippines alone, thousands of animals suffer needlessly every year—beaten, abandoned, tortured, or neglected. The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has documented over 7,000 cases of animal cruelty between 2010 and 2017, while Compassion and Responsibility for Animals (CARA) reported an alarming 3,000 cases in 2020 alone. Even more disturbing is the fact that PAWS receives an average of 40 calls daily related to animal abuse.

These are not just numbers. These are living, breathing beings—dogs, cats, horses, and countless other creatures—who feel pain, fear, and suffering just as we do. Yet, despite the high conviction rate (reportedly 95-98% for pursued cases), the battle is far from over. Why? Because countless cases go unreported, shared as mere social media outrage rather than formal complaints. This must change.

Silence is Complicity.

Every time someone turns away from an act of cruelty—whether it is a neighbor kicking a stray dog, a trader illegally selling wildlife, or a business keeping animals in deplorable conditions—they become part of the problem. Social media outrage is not enough. Sympathy without action is meaningless. The law exists: the Animal Welfare Act (Republic Act 8485, amended by RA 10631) is clear in its stance against animal cruelty. Yet, enforcement relies on people who are willing to speak up, report, and demand justice.

What Can Be Done?

Report, Do Not Ignore. If you witness abuse, document it safely and file a formal complaint with local authorities or organizations like PAWS or CARA. Social media posts may raise awareness, but legal action creates consequences.

Support Animal Welfare Groups. Many organizations work tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and advocate for animals. Volunteer, donate, or simply amplify their efforts.

Educate and Advocate. Misinformation and indifference fuel cruelty. Teach children kindness toward animals, correct myths (such as "animals do not feel pain the way humans do"), and push for stronger protections.

Lead by Example. Adopt, do not shop. Spay and neuter to prevent overpopulation. Treat all living beings with the respect they deserve.

Mahatma Gandhi once said, "The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." If we claim to be a compassionate society, then we must act like one. The law alone will not stop cruelty—people must.

Enough is enough. Say no to animal cruelty—loudly, unapologetically, and relentlessly. The voiceless are counting on us.

— A Fellow Advocate for Justice