Animal welfare groups have expressed concern over the treatment of doves during the Easter Salubong celebration at the Diocesan Shrine & Parish of Immaculate Conception in Malabon on April 5.



Video footage from the ceremony, shared publicly on Facebook, shows a dove restrained with its wings extended and attached to a rod, as well as doves released from elevated positions, some appearing disoriented. One bird was even attached to balloons during the event.

In a statement, the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) emphasized that while the dove symbolizes hope and resurrection, such practices may cause unnecessary stress and potential harm, violating principles of Republic Act No. 8485, as amended by RA 10631, which protects animals from cruelty and maltreatment.

AKF urged clergy and parish leaders to review the use of live animals in ceremonies, provide proof of the doves’ welfare, and adopt humane alternatives that maintain symbolic meaning without causing harm. The organization also called for dialogue, education, and collaboration on ethical animal treatment in religious events.

“Symbolism should never come at the expense of living creatures. Faith and devotion can coexist with compassion and respect for all God’s creations,” the statement read, invoking the teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi on the dignity of all animals.

The AKF has reached out to the Malabon diocese and is awaiting a response, stressing hope that future religious celebrations reflect both faith and compassion.