Animal welfare advocates in Lapu-Lapu City have initiated formal legal proceedings against a local resident, following a disturbing incident of alleged animal cruelty that sparked public outrage online.
Legal Action Follows Viral Video of Attack
On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, representatives from local animal welfare groups filed a formal complaint at the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office Station 3. The case centers on a 43-year-old man from Barangay Babag who was captured on video repeatedly striking a stray dog named 'Whitey' inside a subdivision.
The video quickly spread across social media, drawing condemnation from netizens and prompting the attention of local authorities. In response to the public outcry, the accused man voluntarily surrendered to police. He explained that he acted out of fear for his 12-year-old daughter, who he said was being chased by the dog at the time, citing paternal instinct as his motivation and expressing remorse for his actions.
Tragic Outcome Despite Rescue Efforts
Despite immediate efforts to save him, the canine victim did not survive. Whitey died two days after the incident from severe head trauma sustained during the beating. The dog was also diagnosed with distemper, a highly contagious viral disease, while under veterinary care.
Chierel Quirante, founder of South Stray Haven, who cared for Whitey after the attack, strongly condemned the act. She revealed that subdivision officials had already been informed that Whitey was scheduled for rescue, and a cage had been prepared for him. Quirante argued that while the man may have had a reason for his initial concern, it did not justify the brutal force used against the animal.
Advocate Urges Public Understanding and Calm
In light of rising incidents involving stray animals, Quirante is calling for greater public understanding and restraint. She addressed common misconceptions, explaining that not all dogs that approach people intend to attack.
Many stray dogs approach humans out of curiosity or a desire to interact playfully, she noted. Misreading canine body language can lead to unnecessary fear and potentially harmful reactions.
Quirante offered crucial advice for public safety:
- Remain calm if a dog approaches you.
- Educate yourself on basic signs of dog behavior to better assess their intentions.
- If a dog shows signs of agitation or begins to chase, avoid sudden movements or actions that may provoke it.
- Find a safe way to create distance, such as moving slowly behind a barrier.
The filing of charges aims to ensure accountability under Republic Act 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, setting a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
