Philippines pet crematorium investigation

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has launched an inquiry into Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium following allegations that the facility failed to cremate animals entrusted to it by owners. The investigation was prompted by the discovery of 29 animal remains, including 26 dogs and three cats, in a vacant lot in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan.

NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated that the bureau will use forensic examinations to determine if the recovered remains match the pets of affected owners and to authenticate the ashes returned to clients. The facility may face estafa charges for allegedly collecting payments for services that were not performed.

In response to the reports, Mayor Strike Revilla ordered the facility closed, noting that its business permit did not cover animal cremation services. Actor John Arcilla has called for a nationwide investigation into such facilities, while the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has urged affected owners to pursue legal action and called for government agencies to examine potential violations regarding business permits, sanitation, and consumer protection.

Recent findings indicate the Bacoor, Cavite facility lacked the necessary equipment for cremations and allegedly outsourced the service to a couple in Bulacan. Investigators report that when the volume of remains became overwhelming, the couple reportedly buried some animals instead of cremating them. The NBI has linked 49 dead pets to the situation so far and is preparing to file at least six cases, including estafa, violations of the Consumer Act, and sanitation or environmental offenses. Additionally, the bureau has requested an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order to prevent potential respondents from leaving the country.