A freshman congressman from Cavite is drawing attention online after calling for the reinstatement of the death penalty — by firing squad — for those convicted of animal cruelty.
Cavite 4th District Rep. Kiko Barzaga, a vocal advocate for animal rights, made the proposal in a social media post, saying animal abuse is a “grave injustice” that should be met with the harshest punishment.
“Animal cruelty is an injustice that has no place in our society,” said Barzaga, who refers to himself as “Congressmeow” and is known for championing causes for “asodogs” and “posacats,” his coined terms for dogs and cats.
The lawmaker’s remarks have gone viral, prompting both praise and criticism.
Barzaga has also previously floated capital punishment for chronic litterers, though he has yet to file any formal legislation regarding either proposal.
Capital punishment in the Philippines was abolished in 2006, and any effort to revive it would require new legislation and likely face gargantuan legal and political hurdles.
Barzaga’s statements come amid growing calls from animal welfare groups for stronger laws against abuse and neglect, including harsher penalties and stricter enforcement.
Currently, the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 penalizes violators with imprisonment and fines, but activists argue these measures remain insufficient.
It remains unclear whether Barzaga plans to introduce a bill seeking to reinstate the death penalty specifically for animal cruelty.
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