BAGUIO CITY — After days of public outrage and online speculation over the killing of an American Bully in Sadanga, Mountain Province, the local government has finally issued a clarification to dispel claims that the perpetrator is a municipal councilor.

In an official statement released on 9 December 2025, the LGU confirmed that the person facing charges for the 4 December killing of the dog named Axle is a driver under its staff—not an elected official. The statement emphasized the LGU’s “unequivocal condemnation of the senseless killing” and confirmed that a case is being filed against the employee.

The clarification directly addressed what it called “misleading information circulating online,” stating that the perpetrator is not a Sangguniang Bayan member and is not Daniel “Dongpop” Dawadeo. The LGU stressed that the individual involved is “merely an LGU driver, or municipal staff.”

The announcement follows a viral video showing the killing, which triggered widespread condemnation from dog owners, animal welfare advocates, and netizens. Speculation quickly spread, with many claiming the killer was a municipal councilor.

The LGU urged the public to “refrain from spreading unverified claims,” warning of the harm caused by falsely implicating uninvolved officials.

On 8 December, a local media outlet reported receiving a message—bearing the name of Sadanga but lacking the municipality’s official seal—requesting the takedown of an article about Axle’s death. The nature and legitimacy of the request remain unclear.

Despite the controversy, the LGU said it is proceeding with judicial action. The filing of the case against the staff member is underway to ensure “appropriate legal consequences” for the act of animal cruelty.