MANILA, Philippines – A Philippine Army soldier accused of killing a dog in a viral social media video has been relieved from his duties and is facing an administrative investigation, with possible criminal charges over the alleged animal cruelty.
Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala said on Tuesday, November 10, that the soldier, assigned to the 1st Infantry Division in Zamboanga del Sur, had been relieved from his duties pending the resolution of his administrative case.
According to a news report, the soldier is staying at the division headquarters at Camp Major Cesar Sang-an in Zamboanga del Sur while the case is being investigated.
“The minimum would be demotion from his rank,” Dema-ala said during a press briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, adding that complainants may also pursue a separate criminal case against him.
“The Philippine Army strongly condemns any act of animal cruelty,” he added.
Dema-ala also said personnel found responsible would face appropriate administrative and disciplinary sanctions, as well as applicable legal consequences under existing laws and regulations.
Soldier identified by animal welfare group
Animal welfare group Strategic Power for Animal Respondents (SPAR) Philippines identified the soldier as Private First Class Ruiz in an October 26 Facebook post calling for accountability over the incident.
