Up to 185 horses used for kalesa rides in Vigan City were made to undergo veterinary check-up to address their health needs amid the scorching heat.

The annual check-up, timed before the Holy Week, is part of the city's mission of maintaining the welfare of the animals that have since contributed to the growth of its tourism sector. 

“Knowing na ang pagka-kalesa sa Vigan ay isa sa mga tourist attraction so gusto lang natin na ma-maintain yung animal welfare," Dr. Rayeth Robeniol, Vigan City Veterinarian, said.

Among the horses benefiting from deworming and vitamin administration are those owned by Martel Quirit from Caoayan.

"Malaking bagay na ito sa amin dahil menos gastos na ito sa aming mga kutsero," Quirit said.

But the mission was not without challenges, particularly with horses still undergoing training. Some of them reportedly went astray during the mission.

The City Veterinarian said malnourished or sick horses are not allowed to be deployed. 

"May tinatawag kasi tayong accepted body scorecard, hindi payat, hindi lahat yung hip bone at ribs nila," Robeniol said.

The veterinary mission is expected not only to contribute to the welfare of the horses but also to the livelihood of the carriage drivers.

"Tsaka every spots makapaghinto [dapat] yung mga kabayo, tsaka ang maganda ime-maintain nila yung katawan ng kabayo nila para mas matibay na pagpapasada," Fernando Amano, Jr., President of the Vigan Calesa Association, added.