The Philippine Army has relieved a soldier from duty and opened an administrative case after a viral video showed him slitting a dog’s throat with a knife, sparking outrage and demands for accountability from animal welfare advocates.
Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala confirmed the action during a Nov. 10 press briefing. The soldier, a private first class assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, was transferred to the division’s headquarters in Zamboanga del Sur as the military investigates his alleged involvement.
The footage reportedly shows a man killing a dog with a knife. Animal welfare group Strategic Power for Animal Respondents – Philippines (SPAR) called on the Armed Forces of the Philippines to investigate the incident and impose disciplinary action against those responsible.
“The Philippine Army strongly condemns any act of animal cruelty,” Dema-ala said.
“The Army will not tolerate misconduct and will ensure that those found guilty are held fully accountable, with due process observed.”
Dema-ala identified demotion as the minimum possible administrative penalty under consideration.
“The minimum would be demotion from his rank,” he said.
The incident also raises potential criminal liability under the Animal Welfare Act, as amended by Republic Act No. 10631. The law penalizes animal cruelty, including acts resulting in an animal’s death.
For violations committed by public officers or employees, the law prescribes imprisonment of two years and one day to three years and/or a fine of up to ₱250,000.
Dema-ala explained that complainants may pursue a separate criminal case against the soldier through the justice system, independent of the military’s disciplinary proceedings.
