Photo credit: Dimple Joanicent

In a significant development, Anthony Solares, a barangay tanod from Bgy Sta Cruz, Bato, Camarines Sur, has been formally indicted for the killing of a beloved pet dog named Killua. The case, now identified as People of the Philippines vs. Anthony Solares, is set to proceed to trial following a thorough preliminary investigation.

Prosecutor Wilhenry M. Villar of the Provincial Prosecution Service-Iriga City issued a detailed three-page Resolution, citing probable cause for Solares to face charges under the Animal Welfare Act. The resolution draws a poignant parallel to historical legal cases, emphasizing the profound loss inflicted when a pet is unlawfully harmed.

The incident unfolded on March 17, 2024, when Killua, a 3-year-old Labrador-Golden Retriever crossbreed belonging to Ms. Arazas, went missing. Subsequent investigations revealed that Solares allegedly chased and fatally struck Killua with a piece of wood, an act captured on multiple CCTV cameras in Baranggay Sta. Cruz.

While Solares claimed self-defense, alleging that Killua had bitten him and others in the neighborhood, the evidence gathered suggests a deliberate and cruel act against the animal. Despite no probable cause found for charges under the Anti-Rabies Act, Solares faces prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act, which carries penalties of up to 3 years imprisonment and/or a fine.