ILOILO City – With stray animal carcasses routinely collected from streets and motorists increasingly exposed to road hazards, the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) is pushing for the installation of animal warning signages in accident-prone areas across the city.
In a resolution, it urged the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to install the signs on national roads, while the City Engineer’s Office should handle local roads.
“These warning signs will serve as a reminder for motorists to slow down whenever animals are crossing or seen along the road, particularly stray dogs,” said resolution author Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna, pointing out that unlike other major urban centers, Iloilo City lacks such basic safety features.
Stray animals frequently roam city streets, exposing themselves to fatal accidents while creating traffic hazards.
Although the Office of the City Veterinarian does not keep official records of animal-related road mishaps, the regular collection of carcasses for disposal at the Calajunan dumpsite underscores the persistence of the problem, particularly in densely populated barangays.
Cabaluna emphasized that putting up signs in highways, residential communities, public markets, and plazas could prevent both animal deaths and tragic road accidents.
“Ultimately, this is not just about protecting animals but also about protecting people,” he said. “By avoiding collisions with animals, we also prevent road mishaps that could endanger motorists and pedestrians alike.”
The resolution cited the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Republic Act (RA) 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, as amended by RA 10631, which obliges both public and private sectors to prevent unnecessary animal suffering.
Locally, the Iloilo City Animal Welfare Ordinance of 2024 already requires motorists to exercise caution when animals cross the road.
Proposed signage messages include “SLOW DOWN: Stray Animals Ahead,” “PAGHALONG: Mga Hayop sa Karsada,” and “BRAKE FOR ANIMALS.” The City Council also recommended coordination with the Iloilo City Animal Welfare Committee to ensure the signs are weather-resistant, durable, and highly visible.
Funding for procurement and maintenance will come from available government resources, subject to auditing rules. Copies of the resolution have been furnished to concerned agencies and barangay councils for immediate action./PN
