The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has launched an investigation into a pet cremation service accused of deceiving grieving pet owners after dozens of animal remains were discovered abandoned in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. On November 2, NBI Director Melvin Matibag ordered a comprehensive investigation into Ahjay Paws Aftercare Pet Crematorium, a Bacoor City-based establishment linked to complaints involving pets allegedly never cremated despite their owners paying for the service. Reports from authorities identified 29 animal remains, including 26 dogs and three cats, discovered in plastic bags. The controversy has raised serious concerns over whether families who entrusted their deceased pets to the facility received the services they paid for—and whether the ashes returned to some owners actually belonged to their animals.
The NBI’s Environmental Crimes Division will lead the investigation, assisted by its regional offices in CALABARZON and Central Luzon. Investigators will examine the establishment’s business permits, cremation equipment, surveillance footage, transaction records, and procedures for handling animal remains. The bureau is also looking into possible estafa charges under Article 315(2)(a) of the Revised Penal Code, should evidence establish that payments were obtained through false representations about services rendered. Bacoor City Mayor Strike Revilla had already ordered the crematorium closed on October 31 after its management reportedly failed to provide sufficient documentation proving that cremations had been completed. The NBI has indicated that forensic examinations may also be conducted to determine whether recovered remains and ashes returned to customers can be authenticated.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has called for a broader government investigation into pet cremation facilities nationwide, warning that the reported incident raises concerns about consumer protection and accountability within the industry. The organization has urged affected pet owners to preserve receipts, cremation certificates, photographs, messages, and other records that could support formal complaints. Pet owners who believe they were affected may submit these documents to the NBI headquarters to assist investigators in establishing what services were promised and whether those services were fulfilled. While the allegations against the crematorium remain under investigation, the case highlights the vulnerability of families seeking a dignified farewell for their pets—and the importance of ensuring that businesses offering aftercare services operate with transparency, proper documentation, and respect for grieving customers.