Barangay Hearing Scheduled for Labrador Dog Killing in Mandaue City Market
Barangay Canduman officials in Mandaue City have scheduled a hearing for January 23, 2026, to address the tragic killing of a Labrador dog named Cooper, who was brutally beaten to death in front of a public market earlier this week. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for accountability from the local community.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
According to Barangay Canduman Captain Dante Borbajo, the hearing was originally set earlier but was moved to allow for further coordination following an initial investigation conducted on January 21. The suspect, identified as a dried fish vendor at the market, allegedly attacked Cooper after the dog wandered near his stall. Initial accounts indicate that Cooper approached the vendor's area and sniffed an empty box used for dried fish, which reportedly triggered the violent response.
Borbajo explained that the severity of the injuries suggests the dog was struck multiple times, as a single blow would not have immediately killed it. Cooper did not die right away and managed to run away before being found later in the market area, but he eventually succumbed to the repeated blows. The barangay captain confirmed that during the initial proceedings, the suspect expressed remorse and even broke down in tears while apologizing to the dog's owner.
Owner's Pursuit of Justice and Social Media Outcry
The dog's owner, who uses the name Sergeant Batang Alaska on Facebook, has taken to social media to condemn the incident and call for accountability. In an emotional post, she expressed heartbreak over what happened to her pet and criticized the lack of intervention from witnesses at the market. She stated that no one rescued Cooper or took him to a veterinarian during the attack, leaving her devastated by the inaction.
Despite the suspect's apology, the owner remains firm in pursuing a formal case. Borbajo noted, "Based on our initial investigation, the dog's owner is determined to file a case. Even though the suspect asked for forgiveness, the owner wants justice for her dog." The owner has also reported difficulties in building a strong case, as witnesses are refusing to testify, adding to her disappointment.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
A formal case has now been filed against the individual suspected of killing the dog, and the incident has been officially reported to both the barangay and the police to ensure proper documentation. Barangay officials have committed to facilitating the proceedings and assisting in the investigation as the case moves forward. The hearing is set for 2:00 in the afternoon on January 23, 2026, where both parties will be present to determine the next steps.
This case highlights broader issues of animal cruelty and community responsibility in the Philippines, with many calling for stricter enforcement of laws to protect pets and ensure justice in such incidents.
