Cavite Lawmaker’s Proposal for Firing Squad for Animal Abusers Sparks Heated Debate

A Cavite lawmaker’s call to use the death penalty against animal abusers has ignited a fierce public debate.

Rep. Kiko Barzaga of Cavite has proposed executing people convicted of animal cruelty by firing squad, arguing that extreme punishment is necessary to end the injustice.

Barzaga, who uses the nickname “Congressmeow,” has previously expressed support for harsh penalties for other offenses, including repeated littering.

The suggestion, made on social media, remains only a proposal and has not been formally filed as a bill in the House of Representatives.

The Philippines abolished capital punishment in 2006. Barzaga’s idea has drawn support from some animal-rights advocates but sharp criticism from others who call the measure excessively extreme.