Outcry Over Manila Pet Shops Tragedy
In Manila, animal rights advocates gathered in front of a local market to mourn and protest the tragic deaths of many animals in pet shops affected by flooding. The floods, caused by the southwest monsoon and recent tropical storms, devastated cages housing dogs, cats, fish, rabbits, and other animals. This heartbreaking event highlights the urgent need for a compassionate shift in how society views animals.
Activists emphasized that the suffering in Manila pet shops reflects bigger issues about how animals are treated. They said this tragedy reveals the cruelty embedded in using animals as commodities rather than recognizing them as sentient beings deserving care and freedom. “Manila pet shops” and their role in such incidents must be reconsidered to prevent future harm.
Animals Treated as Property Draws Criticism
Nancy Siy, a prominent animal rights advocate, spoke out about the violence normalized when animals are bought and sold like objects. She said, “The recent tragedy at the Arranque Market highlights the violence that is normalized in animal use. When nonhuman animals are used like property—mere objects that people can profit from—their lives are treated as disposable.”
She urged the public to recognize that every animal, whether a cat, dog, or bird, is a living being with feelings. Ms. Siy added that adopting a vegan lifestyle and pushing for policy changes can help end the cycle of violence against animals.
Flooding Causes Animal Deaths in Pet Shops
According to a joint statement from animal rights groups, the heavy rains caused waist-deep floods inside pet shops. A broken water pump allowed the floodwaters to remain for more than two days, leading to the drowning of numerous animals including dogs, rats, fish, ducks, hamsters, cats, and hedgehogs.
Activists stressed that this was not a random accident but a foreseeable result of treating animals as commercial inventory. They explained that the commodification and confinement of animals strip them of their right to live free from harm and exploitation. This tragedy is part of a larger problem rooted in speciesism—the belief that humans have the right to dominate and use animals at will.
Call to Adopt, Not Shop, to Save Lives
In response to the tragedy, animal advocates urged the public to choose adoption over purchasing pets from shops. They explained that adopting animals can save lives and weaken industries built on animal exploitation.
Edison Yu of Metro Manila Animal Save said, “Pet shops often exist to profit from the vulnerability of animals. Every purchase contributes to the ongoing suffering and exploitation experienced by millions. This is a plea for the public to reject all forms of animal use, whether for food, entertainment, clothing, sports, or cosmetics.”
The activists also called on local authorities to support pet shop workers by providing alternative livelihood opportunities, helping to prevent future tragedies linked to animal exploitation.
For more news and updates on Manila pet shops, visit Filipinokami.com.
