The Cebu City Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries is investigating the deaths of 23 dogs and cats aboard a RoRo ship that arrived in the city. According to a video posted on social media, the animals were trapped in cages while on board the ship.
Dr. Alice Utlang, head of DVMF, said the deaths of the animals could have been caused by heat stroke due to the heat inside the enclosed vehicle. Their animal welfare officer will talk to the shipping line to find out the full details.
It is possible that those responsible will be charged for violating the Animal Welfare Act, which states that animals must be transported in a registered vehicle and only in the proper manner.
