Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla said the owner of Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium, Jonathan Legaspi, is no longer cooperating with the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the facility's services and will instead wait for possible charges to be filed against him.
In a video statement, Revilla said the latest report he received indicated that Legaspi had informed authorities that he would await the filing of appropriate cases against him.
“Sa pinakahuli pong report sa akin, hindi na nakikipagtulungan sa imbestigasyon ang may-ari na si Mr. Jonathan Legaspi. Nagpasabi na lamang daw na hihintay na lamang niya ang kasong isasampa laban sa kanya,” Revilla said.
The mayor acknowledged that the owner has the right to await legal proceedings but assured affected pet owners that the local government would pursue appropriate charges if sufficient evidence is established.
Revilla urged the 47 complainants to coordinate with the Bacoor City Police Station (PNP) to help facilitate the filing of cases, including possible estafa charges.
He also expressed sympathy for the affected pet owners, recognizing the emotional distress caused by the alleged mishandling of their pets' remains.
“Bilang inyo pong mayor, hindi ko po ito palalagpasin,” he stressed.
The local government had earlier ordered the immediate closure of Ahjay Paws' operations while the police, in coordination with the City Legal Office, continue investigating the incident and determining the accountability of those involved.
Beyond the ongoing investigation, Revilla said he had ordered the preparation of a proposed city ordinance to regulate pet crematoriums and pet cemeteries in Bacoor, establishing clearer standards and stricter monitoring of such facilities.
The city government is also planning to establish its own pet crematorium to provide pet owners with accessible, affordable, and reliable services.
“Target din po natin magkaroon ng sarili pong pet crematorium ang City Government ng Bacoor. Upang magkaroon ng maayos, mapagkakatiwalaan, abot-kayang serbisyo para sa ating mga fur babies,” he said.
Revilla reiterated his commitment to pursuing the truth, holding those responsible accountable under the law, and preventing similar incidents from happening again.
