Bacoor pushes LGU-owned pet crematorium

BACOOR CITY -- Mayor Strike B. Revilla announced plans to establish a government-owned pet crematorium to provide reliable, affordable, and dignified aftercare services for pet owners following a major fraud investigation into a local private provider.

The proposed municipal facility forms part of the city's broader push to enhance consumer protection and ensure pet owners have access to trustworthy services when their companion animals die.

The initiative comes after the city government ordered the immediate closure of Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium following numerous complaints from pet owners.

Local authorities are investigating the establishment to determine appropriate criminal charges, including potential counts of estafa.

Revilla reported that more than 200 complainants have come forward against Ahjay Paws as of Tuesday, with the number expected to rise as additional victims report their experiences.

Investigators said the facility's owner, Jonathan Legaspi, has stopped cooperating with local authorities and indicated he will wait for formal charges to be filed.

Revilla urged all affected pet owners to coordinate with the Bacoor City Police Station to help build a stronger case for prosecution.

"Protection of pet owners and the dignity of their beloved animals deserve serious attention from the local government," Revilla said, assuring victims that the city will pursue full accountability and implement safeguards to prevent similar occurrences.

In response to the controversy, the mayor directed city officials to draft local regulations governing pet crematoriums and pet cemeteries.

The upcoming ordinance will set clear operating standards, require strict compliance, and increase government oversight of all animal aftercare establishments in Bacoor.

The planned municipal pet crematorium is intended to offer accessible, reasonably priced services while ensuring transparency, professionalism, and respect for deceased pets.

Revilla also expressed gratitude to National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Atty. Matibag for the agency's prompt assistance in coordinating the ongoing probe into the pet aftercare establishment.