MANILA — Five individuals linked to two pet cremation businesses are facing estafa complaints after the remains of 25 dogs and cats entrusted for cremation were allegedly dumped in San Jose del Monte City, Bulacan, exposing suspected fraudulent practices in the pet aftercare industry.
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag said the complaints were filed Friday on behalf of six pet owners whose documentary evidence had been completed.
At least 25 pet owners have been identified as affected, while more complainants continue to seek assistance from authorities.
The respondents include the owner of Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium in Bacoor, Cavite; a couple operating a cremation facility in Bulacan; and two individuals allegedly hired to dispose of the animal remains.
Investigators discovered that Ahjay Paws allegedly operated without cremation equipment and outsourced the services to the Bulacan facility.
The couple reportedly told NBI investigators on November 4 that they paid two individuals P3,000 to bury the animal remains after a backlog of deceased pets accumulated at their facility.
Instead of burying the remains, however, the two allegedly dumped them.
“‘Nung nakuha na po lahat, hindi naman po ibinaon, itinapon na lang kaya dito po lumabas itong isyu po na ito, itong problema na ito,” Matibag said.
Beyond estafa, the NBI is investigating possible violations of consumer protection laws and environmental and sanitation regulations.
Authorities are also examining how Ahjay Paws was allowed to operate despite allegedly lacking the equipment necessary to provide cremation services.
Matibag urged local government units to tighten inspections and verify that pet cremation establishments have the required machinery and facilities before issuing operating permits.
The NBI said its investigation remains ongoing as agents gather additional evidence and complaints from other affected pet owners./PN
