SADANGA, Mountain Province — Anger is boiling over in Sadanga after a disturbing CCTV video surfaced showing a municipal official allegedly beating an American Pitbull named Axle to death on 4 December.
The footage, which has gone viral on social media, paints a chilling scene. The video starts with a peaceful community gathering, where Axle, the Pitbull, is seen calmly interacting with another dog. Two young children even approach, standing near the animal, which shows no signs of aggression.
Moments later, the tranquility shatters. A man, reportedly a municipal official, wearing a cap and wielding a piece of wood, begins striking Axle. The dog runs, but the man pursues and continues the assault. The sounds of Axle yelping in pain and the owner pleading for mercy are captured on the recording. Sadly, Axle is believed to have succumbed to his injuries.
The video’s circulation has sparked widespread outrage, not just among Sadanga residents but also animal welfare advocates nationwide. Social media users have condemned the act as animal cruelty, demanding that the official be held accountable.
Calls are growing for swift police action, with citizens urging a thorough investigation and appropriate criminal charges under the Animal Welfare Act (RA 8485, as amended by RA 10631). Many are also appealing to the Philippine Animal Welfare Society for assistance and calling on the Sadanga Local Government Unit to launch an internal probe and take decisive administrative measures.
One local resident commented online:
“The video clearly shows Axle was not posing a threat. This official has shown an unacceptable lack of humanity. We need justice for Axle, and this man should be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
The tragic death of Axle has reignited discussions on animal protection, accountability, and responsible governance, as citizens demand justice and stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws.