MANILA — Police are investigating whether a pet cremation facility in Bacoor City, Cavite deceived grieving pet owners by issuing potentially fraudulent cremation certificates and ashes after the remains of 29 dogs and cats were discovered dumped in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has urged clients of Ahjay Paws Aftercare to come forward with receipts, cremation certificates, transaction records and other evidence to help determine whether their deceased pets were actually cremated.
PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. vowed to hold those responsible accountable if investigators establish that the facility defrauded customers who had entrusted their pets’ remains to its care.
“Any form of deception that exploits the trust of grieving pet owners is deeply concerning and must be addressed with the full force of the law,” Nartatez said.
He directed police units in Cavite and Bulacan to coordinate with other government agencies in identifying those responsible for transporting and dumping the animal remains.
Investigators are examining the facility’s business records, cremation equipment, surveillance footage and operating procedures to determine whether it actually performed the services customers paid for.
Forensic examinations are also being prepared to establish whether the recovered remains belonged to animals entrusted to the crematorium and whether the ashes returned to pet owners were authentic.
Police are securing CCTV footage from local government and barangay officials to trace a white van reportedly used to dispose of the remains.
“Fraud is not measured solely by the amount of money taken, but also by the damage inflicted on the people whose trust has been betrayed,” Nartatez said.
Individuals found responsible could face estafa or syndicated estafa charges, depending on the evidence, as well as possible violations of the Code on Sanitation, Ecological Solid Waste Management Act and Consumer Act of the Philippines.
Affected pet owners may also pursue civil claims for damages.
Nartatez assured grieving families that the investigation would address not only possible financial fraud but also the emotional distress caused by the alleged deception.
“To the affected pet owners, we recognize the pain and distress this incident has caused your families,” he said.
Police have yet to establish whether the recovered animal remains were connected to fraudulent cremation transactions./PN
