In 2025, a distressing incident in the Philippines sparked public outrage. A community cat named Ken was brutally kicked to death in Ayala Triangle Gardens, Makati City. The cat’s tragic fate was captured on CCTV footage, which went viral after being shared by animal welfare group CARA Welfare Philippines, igniting widespread condemnation.
Ken resting peacefully on a sidewalk when a man approaches and suddenly delivers a violent kick, sending the defenseless animal flying several meters. Despite emergency efforts to save Ken by rushing him to a veterinarian, the cat succumbed to severe internal injuries.
Authorities identified Jiang Shan, a 32-year-old Chinese national, as the suspect. When brought to a local barangay for questioning, Jiang displayed arrogance, refusing to disclose his address and telling investigators to contact the Chinese embassy instead. His dismissive attitude further enraged the public, with animal lovers demanding strict legal action.
Upon investigation, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) discovered that Jiang entered the Philippines as a tourist in May 2023 but failed to renew his visa after September of the same year, making him an illegal alien. BI agents arrested Jiang outside his residence in Brgy Palanan, Makati. At the time of arrest, he could not present any valid identification documents. Currently, Jiang is detained at the BI’s detention facility in Bicutan, Taguig, awaiting deportation proceedings.
Philippines has strict animal protection laws. The Animal Welfare Act of 1998 criminalizes any act causing unnecessary suffering to animals, including violent actions like kicking or mutilation. First-time offenders face imprisonment ranging from six months to two years, fines between 50,000 – 250,000 Philippine pesos (approximately $600 – $3,000), and for foreign nationals, deportation can be an additional penalty. According to a 2017 Department of Justice guideline, immigration authorities must be informed within 48 hours of any foreigner’s involvement in animal cruelty cases. The BI can then initiate deportation under Section 37 of the Philippine Immigration Act on grounds of “contrary to public morals.”
This incident underscores the Philippines’ strong stance on animal rights and serves as a stark reminder for foreign nationals in the country: compliance with local laws and respect for cultural and social values are non-negotiable, with legal consequences for violations.
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