PAWS slams Malabon church’s apology over Easter Salubong issue

• PAWS criticized the Church’s apology over the Salubong dove controversy
• The group said the response failed to address the real issue of animal cruelty
• They warned that using animals as props is a violation of the law
• PAWS also vowed to take legal action if similar incidents happen again

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has issued a strong response to the recent apology made by a Catholic parish in Malabon following the controversial use of a live dove during an Easter Salubong tradition, saying the response “misses the point” of the issue.

In a statement, PAWS emphasized that the problem goes beyond the release of balloons or the timing of the dove’s release, stressing that the act of using a live animal as a prop is inherently wrong and illegal.

“APOLOGY MISSES THE POINT: ANIMALS SHOULD NOT BE USED AS PROPS,” the organization declared.

The group was referring to the earlier statement from the Diocese of Kalookan, which apologized for the incident and announced that it would discontinue the balloon release in future celebrations. Instead, the parish said it would release the dove immediately after the unveiling of the image of the Virgin Mary.

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However, PAWS argued that such adjustments fail to address the central issue, which is the suffering inflicted on the animal during the ritual.

“They seem to miss the point that the act of fastening the dove’s wings to a tube using cable ties causing the animal extreme suffering while using it as a prop for their presentation is a CRIME,” the statement read.

The organization further reminded the public and religious institutions that such actions are punishable under Philippine law, specifically the Animal Welfare Act or Republic Act 8485, as amended by RA 10631.

PAWS Executive Director Anna Cabrera stressed that beyond moral responsibility, there are legal consequences for acts of animal cruelty.

“If we cannot be guided by the basic precept that animals are capable of suffering… we can perhaps be convinced that there is the law that can make violators accountable,” Cabrera said.

She also issued a clear warning that the organization is prepared to pursue legal action if similar incidents occur in the future.

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“The next time this happens, we will file a case,” she added.

PAWS also called on the public to remain vigilant and proactive, encouraging individuals to document and report similar cases if they arise.

“PAWS urges the public to be vigilant and submit affidavits if a similar presentation with live animals happens next Easter,” the group stated.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is a non-government, volunteer-driven organization based in Quezon City that focuses on preventing cruelty toward animals through advocacy, education, and shelter programs. Established in 1954 by Muriel Jay, the group has long promoted the idea that a compassionate society must extend kindness not only to people but also to animals. PAWS envisions a country where responsible pet ownership is practiced, wildlife is protected, and animals are treated with dignity.

In related developments, Pablo Virgilio David earlier issued a public apology over the same Salubong controversy. He acknowledged that he would not have approved the act had he been aware of it beforehand. The Cardinal also expressed concern over the welfare of the dove and the environmental impact of balloon releases, while calling for a broader and more consistent moral concern that includes both human life and creation.

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Previously, the Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception released its own apology after the incident went viral online. The parish leadership admitted the mistake and expressed regret over the treatment of the animal. Even prior to the backlash, Cardinal David had already been advocating against the use of live animals and balloons in religious activities. The parish reiterated its commitment to ensuring that future religious practices reflect compassion, responsibility, and respect for all forms of life.

Source: KAMI.com.gh