Vets for traveling pets: PPA seeks help in deployment of veterinarians for fur babies in ports during Lenten exodus
The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is eyeing the deployment of veterinarians in its ports in ensuring the protection and care of fur babies and other pets that will travel along with their owners during the Lenten break.
PPA General Manager Jay Daniel Santiago said the intention is for veterinarians to look after animals that will travel with their owners in response to the suggestion of Senator Francis Tolentino.
“We appreciate the suggestion of the good Senator Francis Tolentino and we will be preparing a letter (to animal rights group) to seek assistance of veterinarians in North Harbor and Batangas Port especially during peak season,” said Santiago.
“PPA is a strong supporter of animal rights and welfare and is very cooperative on measures to keep fur babies safe and secured during travels,” he added.
On Saturday, Tolentino said there is a need to deploy veterinarians in ports for the convenience of people traveling with pets, stressing that animals have rights too.
He then asked the PPA to hire veterinarians on-site for such travelers so they can be issued the proper documents to be allowed to board sea vessels in their travels during Holy Week.
Santiago, however, explained that the processing of pets for travel is under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Animal Industry and not under PPA.
“Therefore, BAI has their own procedures in which PPA cannot just intervene. Be that as it may, the PPA is always willing to cooperate to ensure safe and convenient travels at seaports,” said Santiago.
The PPA is expecting more than two million passengers to flock to various ports across the country for the long Holy Week break.
Santiago has already ordered the cancellation of all leaves of absence to ensure sufficient manpower in all ports.
Part of his instruction is to ensure the cleanliness of all port facilities, particularly comfort rooms, and to ensure the convenience of passengers.