Animal Cruelty Arrest in Cauayan: 46-year-old nabbed after he shot and killed a dog with airgun

Cauayan, Isabela – A 46-year-old man in Cauayan City, Isabela, was arrested on Tuesday, nearly five months after he allegedly shot and killed a dog using an airgun.

The suspect was identified as alias “Mundo,” a resident of Barangay Labinab, Cauayan.

The arrest stemmed from an incident that transpired on August 13 last year.

Reports stated that the owner of Argus, then a six-month-old aspin, saw the suspect in possession of an airgun or long firearm while having a drinking spree with two other males.

While the pet’s owner was resting in a hammock beside their house, she heard a gunshot. Moments later, Argus was found injured with a gunshot wound on his right shoulder and later died.

The dog’s owner confronted the suspect, who then fled the area.

The incident was reported to barangay officials, and attempts to locate the suspect were immediately made but proved unsuccessful.

The following day, Argus’ owner, along with the president of the Philippine Society for the Humane Treatment of Animals, Inc., coordinated with local police and witnesses for the apprehension of the perpetrator.

On September 5, 2025, cases were formally filed against the suspect for violations of Republic Act (RA) No. 8485, or the Animal Welfare Act, as amended by RA No. 10631, and RA No. 10591, or the Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

A warrant of arrest was later issued, resulting in the suspect’s apprehension on January 6, 2026.

While the suspect is set to face charges, authorities warned the public against animal cruelty and abuse and encouraged those who witness such acts of maltreatment to come forward and report them.

Violations of the Animal Welfare Act are punishable by imprisonment of six months to one year and/or a fine of up to ₱30,000 for minor cruelty, and up to two years in prison and a fine of up to ₱100,000 if the offense results in an animal’s death.

Increased penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment and/or a fine of up to ₱250,000 may be imposed if the offense is committed by a public officer or employee, a syndicate, an offender who makes a business out of animal cruelty, or when at least three animals are involved.