ANIMAL cruelty has been a persistent concern in our culture for several months or years. In the Philippines, animal cruelty is far too common, ranging from neglect and maltreatment to open torture. 

One key cause is a lack of knowledge and awareness about animal care. Many people grow up without realizing the value of treating animals with kindness and respect. 

Cultural ideas and practices may also play a role, with some communities regarding animals as commodities rather than sentient beings worthy of compassion and care. 

A man was recently caught on video lifting a dog by its leash and twirling it around early in the morning in Pasig City. This video circulated online on Monday, informing netizens about the welfare of the aforementioned dog. 

In an interview with GMA News, the video uploader, Thirdy Munsod, said he heard a howling dog and decided to walk outside. He then noticed the man walking and mistreating the above mentioned dog. 

Furthermore, the uploader stated that this isn’t the first time they’ve witnessed their neighbor mistreat a dog. This time, he had his cellphone with him and recorded a video of the occurrence, which he then published to raise awareness. 

Eric Zuniga, Barangay Pineda’s security officer, stated that they have received complaints about the same guy. However, no one made an official complaint against him. 

Netizens raced to the video post’s comments section, tagging several paw rescue teams and non-governmental groups dedicated to protecting and promoting better animal welfare. 

On the good side, Munsod reports that the dogs have already been safely rescued. “Update: Na rescue na po lahat ng aso. Salamat po sa mga nag rescue,” wrote the uploader. 

Animal cruelty has been a major issue in the Philippines, requiring prompt notice and intervention. There is a need to address the underlying causes of cruelty, promote public awareness, and adopt appropriate regulation. 

Some feel it should be incorporated into school curricula, as well as increased public awareness efforts, in order to develop a culture of compassion and respect for all sentient beings. 

The country will seek to create a society in which animals are treated with the respect and care they deserve. Stand together to push for a future in which compassion triumphs over cruelty.