Actress Nadine Lustre and animal welfare advocates joined hands with Rep. Leila de Lima (ML Party-list) on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, to file two bills in the House of Representatives that aim to strengthen animal welfare laws and establish a plant-based health advocacy program.
De Lima filed House Bills 7696 and 7697 — the Animal Welfare Enforcement Act and the Vegetables for Health and Nature Act. Also included is House Resolution 748, which calls for a congressional inquiry into the country's ongoing environmental challenges.
The Animal Welfare Enforcement Act proposes the establishment of Animal Welfare Desks in police stations staffed with trained animal welfare officers as a dedicated mechanism for reporting animal rights violations. It also seeks to establish an Animal Welfare Ombudsman Unit under the Philippine National Police (PNP) to ensure proper enforcement of animal laws.
Meanwhile, the Vegetables for Health and Nature Act promotes healthier and more sustainable diets by eating native vegetables, reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases, and helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The proposal includes “Plant Monday” or HALAMONDAY, where government offices, schools, and hospitals are required to offer plant-based meals every Monday.
In an ambush interview, Lustre said the proposed laws are “win-win” for the health of Filipinos, animals, and local businesses. According to entrepreneur Christophe Bariou, it will improve the affordability of healthier food and the overall health of Filipinos, especially against diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. The proposals will still go through committee deliberations and second and third readings before being implemented.
