Stray animals may soon get more protection on the streets as the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) approved a resolution calling for the installation of warning signs in accident-prone areas across Iloilo City.
The measure, authored by Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna, directs the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Iloilo City Engineer’s Office to put up signs along national roads, highways, residential areas, public markets, plazas, and other identified locations where stray animals are often seen or pose potential risks to motorists and pedestrians.
Cabaluna said the initiative is not just about preventing accidents but also about reshaping the way people perceive strays.
“Most signs tend to put animals in a negative light. This time, we want to emphasize that Iloilo City values both road safety and animal welfare,” he explained.
Among the proposed warning signs are messages such as “Slow Down: Stray Animals Ahead,” “Paghalong: Mga Hayop sa Karsada” (Beware: Animals on the Road), and “Brake for Animals.”
The councilor stressed that even small reminders can influence driver behavior and instill caution on the road.
He added that while the Office of the City Veterinarian does not maintain an official record of accidents involving stray animals, it has been observed that carcasses are regularly collected and disposed of at the Calahunan dumpsite, with some even left to decompose uncollected.
Cabaluna underscored that Iloilo City’s approach should highlight compassion for animals alongside safety for motorists and pedestrians.
“It is important to remind our community that our pets and even stray animals deserve care and protection—at least until we are able to remove them from the streets,” he said.
With the resolution now passed, the city is positioning itself as a community that upholds both public safety and humane values, showing that protecting lives extends not only to people but also to animals that share the city’s roads.IMT
