A traffic enforcer, a horse, and its driver figured in a minor accident during the Celestine Horse Race in Angeles City.

A video of the incident showed a galloping horse pulling a small carriage when a motorcycle ridden by a traffic enforcer, who was serving as an escort for the event, hit the rear part of the carriage accidentally. The collision caused both the enforcer and the horse to fall, while the driver was also thrown off the vehicle.

According to Angeles City Information Officer Jay Pelayo, this was the first time such an accident happened during the annual race.

“Sa pagkakaalam po namin, ngayon lang nagkaroon ng ganitong insidente na kinasasangkutan ng traffic enforcer. Mabuti na lang at walang malubhang nasaktan sa magkabilang panig, at nagkaayos na rin ang mga sangkot,” Pelayo said.

Another spectator was reportedly grazed by running horses during the race. Responders from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) immediately provided first aid to those involved.

Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) expressed concern over such events, saying horse races compromise animal welfare.

“Maybe long time ago, this may have been an acceptable practice. But right now, people realize that animals are sensitive beings capable of suffering and pain. It’s about time to educate the public and even our local government units to move away from these kinds of practices and promote culture and traditions that uplift Filipino values without exposing animals to harm,” AKF Program Director Atty. Heidi Caguioa said.

The Celestine Horse Race is an annual event organized by a private group as part of the Fiestang Culiat celebration in Angeles City.