Animal groups urge witnesses to come forward for dog killed in viral video

Animal rights advocates are urging witnesses in Sadanga, Mountain Province to step forward on the recent death of Axle, an American Bully whose brutal beating early this week was caught on video and went viral online.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) publicly condemned the killing and demanded justice for the pet dog.

However, they noted that there were no witnesses stepping up to help testify for Axle’s case.

PAWS said that without a witness, the case cannot move forward.

Based on CCTV footage of the incident, several people were present as the suspect brutally beat Axle to death but none were seen providing any assistance or paid much attention to the incident.

“The criminal case can only proceed with the help of witnesses or those with personal knowledge to the crime. Anyone who personally witnessed the incident or has direct knowledge can still pursue legal action by filing a case,” PAWS said.

“PAWS has been searching for even one courageous witness willing to stand up for Axle. So far, no one has come forward. We cannot pursue a criminal case without testimony from people who personally saw or know about what happened,” it added.

The group also debunked rumors that justice was now impossible due to an alleged settlement between the perpetrator and Axle’s owner, with claims that such a development does not absolve the suspect from criminal liability.

“It does not have to be the owner. It does not matter if a settlement occurred. And it does not diminish the fact that a crime, against a sentient being who suffered and died, was committed,” PAWS said.

PAWS called on the public to take action by stepping forward as a witness or if they had any footage or information on the case.

“Cruelty thrives when people choose to look away and be silent. We have laws to protect animals, but laws only work when people choose to use them. Axle cannot speak for himself, but you can be his voice,” PAWS said.

In a separate statement, the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) echoed PAWS’ calls for justice and reiterated that “dogs like Axle are not mere property.”

“They are living, sentient beings capable of feeling fear, joy, and suffering. They provide companionship, loyalty, protection, and love. For many families, they are deeply valued members, and how we treat them speaks volumes about our values as a community,” AKF said.

AKF also addressed claims that the incident occurred after Axle allegedly urinated on the suspect, with claims from the Sadanga mayor that the beating occurred because the action was believed to be unlucky.

“Sadanga is known for its strong traditions, unity, and sense of dignity. Upholding animal welfare does not diminish these cultural values but rather strengthens them. Protecting the voiceless is a reflection of moral leadership and cultural integrity,” it said.

The group called for the public to speak out against similar cases of wrongdoings, as “the consequences of silence and tolerance” sends dangerous messages tolerating violence against the voiceless.”

In a statement on Facebook, the Sadanga local government said that it condemns the brutal killing.

It clarified the suspect was a driver for the local government and not a member of the provincial board.

“We urge the public to refrain from spreading unverified claims that may cause unwarranted harm to individuals not involved in the incident,” it said.

The incident occurred in Barangay Saclit in Sandanga, Mountain Province last December 4.

CCTV footage of the incident showed Axle attempting to escape, but was chased around and was beaten repeatedly with a wooden stick until he died.

The Sadanga LGU said that a case is now being filed against the suspect. —Jiselle Anne Casucian/RF, GMA Integrated News