June 10, 2026 — Demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a safe, healthy, and animal-friendly campus environment, Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) successfully conducted its Responsible Pet Ownership Orientation and Anti-Rabies Vaccination Drive at the College Function Hall, Mandaon, Masbate.
The initiative was organized in response to the increasing presence of free-roaming dogs within the campus. While many of these animals are owned by residents living on or near the campus, their frequent presence in high-traffic areas has raised concerns regarding public safety, including the risk of animal-related injuries and road accidents involving motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Under the leadership of Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, DEBESMSCAT established a collaborative partnership with the Provincial Veterinary Office headed by Dr. John H. Abella to address these concerns through education, preventive healthcare, and responsible pet management.
The program formally opened with welcome remarks from Mr. Wilfred C. Pagorogon, DRRM Director, who emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership in ensuring the welfare of both animals and the campus community. The event drew active participation from DEBESMSCAT personnel, boarding house owners, and pet owners residing within and around the college grounds.
Representing the Provincial Veterinary Office during the morning orientation were Mr. JP Dimen and Mr. Dario Fernandez, who served as resource speakers on behalf of Dr. Abella. The two speakers discussed the rights, responsibilities, and legal obligations of pet owners and highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership in fostering a safer and healthier community.
Their presentations focused on key provisions of the Animal Welfare Act of 1998 (Republic Act No. 8485), as amended by Republic Act No. 10631, and the Anti-Rabies Act of 2007 (Republic Act No. 9482). Participants were educated on proper animal care, vaccination requirements, and the collective role of communities in preventing rabies and promoting animal welfare.
An open forum followed, providing participants with the opportunity to raise concerns and seek clarification on various issues related to pet ownership and animal management.
In the afternoon, personnel from the Provincial Veterinary Office, with the assistance of staff from the Local Government Unit of Mandaon, conducted a campus-wide anti-rabies vaccination drive for resident-owned dogs. The collaborative effort ensured the efficient delivery of veterinary services and reinforced the shared commitment of local government and educational institutions to public health and animal welfare.
The program was facilitated by Ms. Hazel P. Vargas, who served as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.
Beyond the orientation and vaccination activities, the Provincial Veterinary Office also committed to providing technical assistance to the college administration in the formulation of policies and guidelines on responsible pet ownership and animal control. This partnership is expected to help DEBESMSCAT implement humane, sustainable, and legally compliant measures in managing roaming animals while upholding national animal welfare standards.
Through this collaborative effort among DEBESMSCAT, the Provincial Veterinary Office, and LGU Mandaon, the institution continues to strengthen its commitment to community safety, public health, and responsible stewardship of animals within the campus environment.
Ladies and gentlemen,
