BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City Government has formally institutionalized its “Libreng Kapon for Pets” program following the approval of an ordinance providing free spay and neuter services for pets owned by indigent residents.
The measure, approved on third and final reading during the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s regular session on June 10, 2026, establishes a citywide initiative aimed at addressing the growing population of stray dogs and cats while strengthening animal welfare and public health efforts.
It also reinforces partnerships with private veterinary clinics and ensures dedicated funding for the program’s sustained implementation.
The ordinance was authored by Councilors Al Victor Espino, Homer Bais, and Celia Flor, who cited the increasing number of stray animals as a continuing concern affecting public safety, animal welfare, and rabies prevention efforts.
Anchored on Republic Act No. 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631, the measure underscores the government’s mandate to protect and promote animal welfare.
Under the ordinance, the City Veterinary Office (CVO) will oversee the implementation of the program, which provides free surgical sterilization services for Aspin (Asong Pinoy) and Puspin (Pusang Pinoy) owned by qualified indigent residents of Bacolod City.
City officials stressed that surgical sterilization, commonly known as “kapon,” remains the most humane and effective method of controlling pet overpopulation and reducing the risk of rabies transmission.
To encourage participation from the veterinary sector, the ordinance also grants incentives to accredited private veterinary clinics partnering with the city government.
Participating clinics may receive a business tax reduction of up to five percent annually, provided they perform a minimum of 10 to 15 surgeries per month under the program.
In addition, the city government will shoulder essential medical supplies, including anesthesia, sutures, needles, and post-operative antibiotics for qualified beneficiaries.
The ordinance also cites Section 192 of the Local Government Code of 1991, which allows local government units to grant tax incentives and exemptions through duly enacted ordinances.
Funding for the program’s implementation will be sourced from the city’s General Fund, with succeeding allocations to be incorporated into the annual budget of the City Veterinary Office.
City officials said the initiative removes a major financial barrier that has long prevented many low-income pet owners from accessing sterilization services despite their willingness to practice responsible pet ownership.
Even prior to the ordinance’s passage, the City Veterinary Office (CVO), under the leadership of Mayor Greg Gasataya, had been conducting regular “Libre Kapon” activities as part of its animal welfare and responsible pet ownership campaign.
The institutionalization of the program ensures its continuity and expands access to free sterilization services for qualified residents, reinforcing the city’s commitment to humane population control and community health.
The CVO continues to accept applications for upcoming schedules and reminded pet owners to comply with the following requirements:
* Pet owners must be residents of Bacolod City
* Pets must be at least six months old
* Pets must not be fed or given water six to eight hours before surgery
* Pets must be healthy and free from medical conditions that may complicate the procedure
* Pets must be transported in a secure carrier or kept on a leash upon arrival
The CVO assured residents that additional schedules will be announced in the coming months and encouraged the public to monitor its official social media pages for updates and registration details./PN
