Senator Francis Pangilinan
Bureau of Animal Industry
Philippine Animal Welfare Society

July 30, 2019

Dear Sirs/Madams,

We are writing to you as advocates for rabbit welfare and humbly ask for your support in the initiative to include animal protection for Lagomorphs (rabbits and hares) in the Philippine constitution.

We are approaching you in the context of the numerous incidents of abuse and neglect we have seen as rescuers and adopters; most of which are committed by pet stores, illegal vendors and rabbit breeders. It is our view that rabbits deserve an action to protect them and it is long overdue. We believe it is time to rectify this omission so we kindly ask for your support that they be removed from the list of livestock, that their sales to be regulated and that breeders adhere to humane and ethical standards which values the welfare of these sentient beings.

Mahatma Gandhi once said: "The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated."; while it is beautiful that we protect dogs and cats, it would be a credit to our society if we are to show the same level of respect for these small, voiceless creatures that are so much more than we give them credit for. They are loving, loyal, smart, curious companions that have become emotional support animals and friends for many of us who have been lucky enough to know them.

Unfortunately, because they are advertised as "easy, starter pets" they are often misunderstood and not given the proper care they deserve. More often than not, they are given chicken feed as food when their diet should be eighty percent hay. They are also often kept in small cages outside in the elements by breeders who do not consider overpopulation of their kind. We hope to change that and with your help, we can do so much more.

We are open to discuss proposals and are looking forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Abigail Corpuz
Rabbit mom to Primrose and Lace (rescued and adopted)
Rabbit advocate