UP vice president allegedly orders impoundment of university dogs, cats

A social media post by Gabo Yap on Thursday alleged that the University of the Philippines (UP) Vice President Caesar Saloma ordered the capture and impounding of free-roaming dogs and cats on the UP Diliman campus.

The post alleged that the operation was set to begin with a group of community dogs residing near Quezon Hall.

According to Yap, an employee from one of the UP Diliman offices informed him that the roundup would start with an elderly community dog known as "Pitbull" and the rest of its pack.

The dogs were reported to be vaccinated, neutered, and friendly animals that have lived on campus for several years, which drew concern from animal welfare advocates and members of the university over the decision.

The post further alleged that the dogs had previously been placed in a temporary enclosure ahead of major campus events.

While Yap initially believed the enclosure was only a temporary measure to manage large crowds, it's said that the animals are now facing permanent capture and impoundment.

Yap also urged university officials to allow the community animals to remain on campus and appealed for compassion, particularly for older dogs with declining health.

The University of the Philippines has not issued an official statement regarding the matter.