Manila: To curb the spread of animal diseases, such as African swine fever (ASF), in the country, Abra lone district Rep. Joseph Sto. Ni±o Bernos and Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos have filed a bill that seeks to provide pet owners and farmers with sufficient access to essential animal healthcare.
According to Philippines News Agency, filed on Oct. 1 at the House of Representatives, Bill 5059, or the Animal Medical Center bill, requires the establishment of veterinary clinics in every local government unit in the country. The proposed clinics will offer services including veterinary consultations, animal vaccinations, disease diagnosis, treatment, and minor surgical procedures. Additionally, they will provide technical assistance and health management programs for farmers and livestock raisers, as well as education on responsible pet ownership and the humane treatment of animals.
The clinics would also serve as a hub for disease monitoring, outbreak response, and vaccination drives. They would conduct routine vaccinations such as anti-rabies and distemper, offer deworming services, and implement spay and neuter programs for pet population control. Furthermore, the clinics would maintain a database of registered pets and vaccinated animals within the LGU’s jurisdiction and coordinate with local animal welfare organizations and law enforcement on animal rescue and cruelty cases.
Bernos highlighted that their proposal was inspired by their province’s experience with ASF. He emphasized the necessity of properly equipped veterinary clinics in every municipality to help farmers and livestock raisers prevent the loss of their livelihood through timely and affordable interventions. Bernos noted that while the Local Government Code provides for the creation of the positions of Provincial and City Veterinarian, it lacks provisions for municipal veterinarians and the establishment of veterinary clinics or centers led by these officials.
His spouse added that public veterinary clinics could play a crucial role in ensuring safer, well-balanced communities. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging that animals are integral to human communities, whether as pets or as part of the agricultural economy. She stressed that taking proper care of animals is essential to looking after human interests as well.
