A MALL security guard who allegedly threw a puppy from an overpass last year causing its death was indicted before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office for violation of the Animal Welfare Act.
Facing a case for violating Section 9 of the law is Jojo Malicdem, who was immediately dismissed by the management of SM City North Edsa after the incident went viral on social media platforms.
Section 9 of the law punishes any individual who subjects any animal to maltreatment, cruelty or neglect by either imprisonment, fine, or both, depending on the court.
“After a careful perusal of the foregoing, this Office finds that there is probable cause to charge the respondent with the crime of violation of Section 9 (1) of Republic Act No 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1988, as amended by RA 10631,” the indictment dated January 22, 2024 and signed by Senior Assistant City Prosecutor Diovie Macaraig-Calderon said.
Violation of the law carries penalties of imprisonment of six months to two years and fines ranging from P1,000 to P5,000.
Malicdem denied tossing the puppy named Browny, adding the incident started when he confronted illegal vendors and beggars staying at the connecting footbridge from SM City North Edsa to Ayala Malls Trinoma. He said they are not allowed on the bridge by SM management.
He added that he tried to push the puppy being carried by one of five teenage beggars away from his face when he felt something sharp touching his skin.
Thinking that he was bitten, Malicdem said he forcefully pushed away the hand of the teenager holding the puppy, causing the animal to be thrown off the railing.
But the Prosecutor’s Office said the complainant, Janine Santos, clearly narrated and submitted proof of the incident.
The Philippine Animal Welfare Society joined Santos in lodging the case.
“In the instant case, there is sufficient evidence to prove that respondent indeed committed a violation of the aforementioned law as he caused maltreatment upon an animal resulting in its death,” the resolution said.
It added that what Malicdem said in defense is “evidentiary in nature” and is best presented and proven and subject to determination by a trial court.
A P12,000 bail was recommended for Malicdem’s temporary liberty.