Animal Empathy Philippines

By Enzo Bautista


Understanding someone’s experiences goes beyond mere observation; it necessitates total immersion into their realities. As an advocate for animal welfare, I’ve long understood the significance of not just advocating from a distance but also delving deep into the heart of the matter. Despite my dedication to these causes, I found myself relatively new to the complexities of farmed animal advocacy.

Realizing this gap in my understanding, I felt compelled to broaden my knowledge proactively. I recognized that advocating for change without firsthand insight into the industry’s inner workings would inherently limit my effectiveness. Thus, I accepted the opportunity to immerse myself in the farmed animal advocacy movement, aiming to witness its realities firsthand.

The trip to Capiz served as a microcosm of the broader agricultural landscape, offering invaluable insights into the challenges encountered by animals and advocates. Being physically present allowed me to transcend mere statistics and headlines, gaining a nuanced perspective that would significantly inform my advocacy efforts.

My participation in the trip served a dual purpose: accompanying Ms. Ging Geronimo, ourDirector for Projects, and providing essential support regarding documentation and research guidance. Drawing upon my role as AEP’s Social Media Associate and leveraging my robust foundation in research methodology, I recognized my capacity to contribute substantially to the journey’s objectives.

Furthermore, being in the presence of Ms. Ging, a advocate, presented an invaluable learning opportunity. Her guidance and mentorship enriched my knowledge and instilled in me a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to advocacy.

While my professional background hinted at my ability to offer substantial assistance during the trip, I understood that the experience would transcend the boundaries of my expertise. It represented a unique opportunity for personal growth and professional development, marking a pivotal moment in my ongoing journey as an advocate for animal welfare.

Throughout our trip, Mr. Jim Boy Asoy, the head of the project we were supporting, served as our gracious host, and he was an absolute delight. From the moment we arrived, he extended a warm welcome, showcasing genuine hospitality and ensuring our immersion in their perspective of the animal advocacy spectrum.

Mr. Asoy’s expertise in animal husbandry shone through in our interactions. As a respected figure in their locality, he adeptly navigated discussions on animal advocacy and welfare, providing invaluable insights that complemented the mission of our organization, AEP. His commitment to advocacy mirrored our principles, making our collaboration on this project both natural and fruitful. Mr. Asoy and his family went above and beyond to ensure our comfort during our stay. They graciously provided accommodations and ensured we were well-fed, exemplifying genuine Filipino hospitality.

In addition to his hospitality, Mr. Asoy generously showed us around the area, enriching our trip with firsthand experiences of the local community and its relationship with farming and animal welfare. By providing us with a deeper understanding of the challenges farmers and animals face in the region, he transformed our trip into a meaningful exploration of work and local life.

Our encounter with the mayor of Pontevedra was a notable highlight of our trip. Despite his hectic schedule, he graciously met with us, demonstrating a genuine interest in our purpose. This allowed us to discuss the objectives of our visit, provide an overview of the GAHP project, and delve into the specifics of farmed animal advocacy and the role of AEP.

Remarkably, the mayor’s background in agriculture equipped him with a deep understanding of the region’s needs regarding animal welfare. He recognized the importance of initiatives that benefited farmed animals and supported the livelihoods of those reliant on them. This vision alignment served as a promising foundation for potential collaborations to advance farmed animal welfare initiatives within the community.

Witnessing firsthand how farmers tended to their pigs was genuinely enlightening. Evidently, these animals were not just commodities but were genuinely cared for and nurtured by their caretakers. While I refrain from speculating on the motivations behind such compassionate treatment, it was clear that the farmers’ primary concern was the well-being and happiness of the pigs under their care.

However, there existed a noticeable disparity in the level of care provided, primarily influenced by the resources available to the caretakers. While all farmers had a basic understanding of animal husbandry, adhering to regulations posed challenges, resulting in breaches and lapses in animal welfare standards.

One of the project’s key objectives was to pinpoint these gaps in animal health and welfare. The firsthand observations of backyard enclosures shed light on areas for improvement and highlighted the pressing need for interventions to enhance animal well-being.

Mr. Asoy graciously showcased his meticulously developed enclosures, setting a gold standard for pig housing. His pens were exemplified the ideal environment for pigs, with stringent measures in place to minimize disease transmission. Furthermore, his farm demonstrated sustainable waste management practices, providing hope for a future where animal suffering is minimized.

Participating in the focus group discussion was a fascinating experience. Unlike the typical approach of smaller, more manageable groups, our session involved a more extensive gathering of ten participants. This decision was made to enhance efficiency and accommodate the farmers’ comfort, resulting in a lively and vibrant discussion.

Despite the language barrier, it was evident that all the farmers were deeply passionate about the well-being of their animals. While it might be easy to assume that this concern stems solely from the animals’ role as a means of livelihood, the data gathered by the project suggests otherwise.

For these smaller farmers, animal husbandry appeared to be more than just a source of income—it was a tradition, a common practice, and even a passion. The pigs were treated as companion animals until reaching a critical point where economic considerations necessitated their sale. This observation underscores these farmers’ genuine empathy for the animals in their care.

While further insights will be revealed in the research report, it’s heartening to witness such empathy among these farmers. Despite the context of animal husbandry, there is a palpable sense of hopefulness surrounding the project. It has the potential to serve as a beacon for the future of animal advocacy in the Philippines, charting a course toward a more compassionate and ethical approach to animal welfare.

The trip to Capiz bestowed upon me invaluable insights into the intricate workings of the farmed animal advocacy movement. Engaging with myriad viewpoints and ideologies, I adeptly navigated the multifaceted nature of the issue, garnering a deeper appreciation for its nuances.

Farmed animal advocacy presents a formidable challenge on a grander scale, particularly when confronted with the realities faced by farmers and stakeholders deeply intertwined with these animals. The GAHP initiative, however, provided a window into ethical treatment practices and burgeoning developments in local advocacy, offering a promising interim solution to confront the hurdles encountered by farmed animals.

Furthermore, the trip marked a significant turning point in my dedication to animal advocacy. It reaffirmed my resolve to catalyze positive change within the industry. It underscored the paramount importance of continual learning and evolution in this sphere.

Armed with newfound knowledge and insights upon my return home, I am more resolute than ever to advocate fervently for the welfare of farmed animals. This odyssey has not only enriched my comprehension of the subject matter. Still, it has also reignited a sense of purpose within me, propelling me steadfastly to pursue substantive change.

Farmed Animal Advocacy Movement In The Philippines: What Are We Doing And Where Are We Heading?

by Julia Dolfo de Castro

The Various Roles of Filipino Farmed Animal Advocates

Recently, the Philippines was reported to be one of the countries that are least cruel to farmed animals. This can be surprising as meat is deeply part of many Filipino food. 

Nonetheless, in the Philippines, an increasing number of individuals and organizations are actively engaged in advocating for the welfare of farmed animals. These advocates play various roles in different areas, contributing to the overall mission of improving the lives of farmed animals and our perception of them. Below are some of the key roles played by Filipino farmed animal advocates.

1. Direct Care

There are dedicated individuals and organizations that provide sanctuary and care not only for companion animals but also for farmed animals. Organizations like the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF), Happy Animals Club, Philippine Animal Rescue Team (PART), and Best Friends Furever Sanctuary, Inc. work tirelessly to provide a safe haven for rescued farmed animals.

Some of these organizations are also involved in disaster relief operations, rescuing both companion and farmed animals in times of natural calamities.

2. Lobbying and Campaigns

Many organizations that are into direct care also work tirelessly to lobby causes for farmed animals. For one, PAWS has lobbied for improving the welfare of animals in farms and slaughterhouses. In 2020, PAWS launched The Better Chicken Option (TBCO) campaign to urge farmers, through webinars and roundtable discussions, to commit to higher welfare standards in raising broiler chickens. In 2021, they commissioned a study that revealed that Filipinos care about chickens next to dogs and cats. Because of this information, PAWS was able to make restaurants and food businesses like Figaro, Tien Ma’s, Angel’s Pizza, and Binalot sign up to be TBCO partners.

3. Research

There are researchers in the Philippines who are actively working on alternative proteins and farmed animal advocacy. Notably, Animal Empathy Philippines (AEP) has initiated a scoping report on alternative proteins. AEP recently concluded its journey mapping research on Filipino farmed animal advocates. 

Meanwhile, AKF has conducted a study to better understand the state of fish welfare in the Philippines, specifically farmers’ and stakeholders’ perception toward fish welfare and their awareness of relevant welfare regulations, standards, and laws. From their findings, they were able to provide recommendations on how to capacitate stakeholders in improving fish welfare in the Philippines.
These efforts are crucial in providing data that will inform farmed animal advocacy in the country.

4. Education

Several community groups formed in social media conduct workshops, fellowships, and discussions to raise awareness about farmed animal advocacy. Manila Vegans, a Facebook community group, not only provides space and resources for individuals who want to keep farmed animals off their plates; they also organize educational webinars and discussions to help individuals become better farmed animal advocates. 

AEP has also been conducting fellowships and workshops to capacitate and empower farmed animal advocates in their advocacy efforts.

5. Community Engagement

Creating a sense of community is crucial in any advocacy movement. There are several groups that organize get-togethers and social activities to foster a safe and friendly environment for advocates and allies. Some Facebook community groups like Manila Vegans and Vegan Brunch Club PH hold potlucks where animal advocates can socialize. 

The Good Food Company fosters relationships between farmers and consumers through partnerships and community gatherings such as Good Food Sundays.  Vegans of Manila collaborate with vegan food innovators and animal protection organizations to organize events like the annual VegFest Pilipinas and bring together advocates and allies.
These gatherings allow like-minded individuals to connect, network, exchange ideas, and support one another in their advocacy efforts.

6. Alternative Solutions

Some advocates provide practical solutions by creating alternatives to animal products. They work on developing plant-based alternatives to meat and vegan versions of traditional Filipino foods. By offering viable and delicious alternatives, advocates like chef RG Enriquez-Diez (widely known as Astig Vegan) contribute to reducing the demand for animal products and promoting a more compassionate lifestyle.
WTH Foods is just one of the many companies venturing into food innovation, creating plant-based alternative meats from soy, wheat, and microalgae.

7. Communications

Communication plays a vital role in raising awareness about farmed animal welfare. Many Filipino farmed animal advocates utilize social media platforms and create artistic expressions to spread their message of compassion. Through engaging content and personal stories, they showcase how their lifestyles align with their values, encouraging others to consider the ethical implications of their dietary choices.

8. Healthcare and Fitness Practice

There are farmed animal advocates who emphasize the benefits of veganism or a plant-based lifestyle to health and fitness. Plant-based nutritionist-dietitian Roni Matalog is on a mission to help Filipino vegans, vegetarians, or anyone who’s interested in shifting to a plant-based lifestyle achieve their optimal health through a plant-based diet that is adequate, balanced, and sustainable. Her goal is to provide her clients the tools, resources, support, accountability, and guidance to eat more whole plant foods and live a joyful and fulfilling plant-based life. 
The documentary The Game Changers has inspired many health-conscious individuals and athletes to go plant-based. It debunks the myth that we need to kill animals to acquire protein. As Filipina fitness coaches Sam Bumagat and Air Hernaez prove, it is possible to be strong and fit on a vegan diet.

9. Movement Building

There are non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and start-ups dedicated to farmed animal advocacy that seek funding or grants to support their initiatives and help grow the farmed animal movement. These organizations play a critical role in bringing together advocates and capacitating them, coordinating efforts and interventions, and implementing impactful projects that drive change at a larger scale.

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Kate (left) and Janai (right) at AEP’s booth at Animal Welfair 2024


Animal Empathy Philippines (AEP) recently took part in the Animal WelFair 2024 event, hosted by the Ateneans Guided and Inspired by Love for Animals (AGILA) at Ateneo de Manila University from April 22nd to 26th, 2024.

AGILA, an independent organization within the Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Schools, advocates for animal welfare and the protection of animal rights. Their flagship initiative, Animal WelFair, aims to cultivate responsible pet ownership and sustainable animal management through a series of seminar-workshops and booths featuring various animal welfare organizations and businesses.

Janai (right) with attendees of Animal Welfair 2024


AEP’s participation in Animal WelFair 2024 was driven by a desire to glean insights on farmed animal issues from the community of Ateneo students. Among the AEP Volunteers present at the event, Jester de Torres reflected on his experience, who was at first feeling a bit nervous but somehow felt profound fulfillment after. He found himself amidst familiar faces from the AEP community while also forging new connections. Alongside fellow volunteer Jas, he conducted spontaneous interviews with Ateneans, delving into their perspectives on animal-human relations.

During these interviews, Jester discovered a spectrum of sentiments. As he narrated,

“Several answers pertained to animals asking for their needs, such as food, shelter, etc. These answers are inspired by the interviewees’ pets or companion animals. Truly, when people are asked about animals, they think of their companion animals or animals they have had a bond or connection with for a long time. 

Some answers referred to “setting animals free” or “reducing their suffering,” with the premise of farmed animals being caged or living under unnatural conditions. They thought of this answer because of their prior knowledge of factory farming and even animal testing for human products (specifically, make-up). Some mentioned that their families have farms and are aware of some harmful practices in farming. Some mentioned that they have seen animals suffering in the media.”

Jester found encouragement in the genuine interest displayed by many Ateneans towards animal advocacy, fostering optimism for the future of animal welfare in the Philippines.

Reflecting on his experience, he recognized parallels between himself and the individuals he encountered. Like many college students, he is navigating a path towards living a purposeful life with a biocentric perspective. He was reminded of organizations like the “Allied Scholars for Animal Protection,” which advocate for effective and sustainable animal advocacy on university campuses, sparking the idea of establishing a Filipino chapter.

Jester also expressed gratitude for events like AGILA’s Animal WelFair, emphasizing the importance of such platforms in fostering dialogue and action around animal welfare. He hopes for more such events in the future, providing opportunities for collaboration and growth within the Filipino animal advocacy community.

Together with Jester, Jas also shared her experience at the event, which she describes as both empowering and transformative. Jas emphasized the rarity of feeling genuinely valued by an organization, highlighting the importance of personal connections over transactional interactions. This sense of belonging motivates her to further engage in animal welfare efforts, and to be connected with the AEP community at the very least. 

When asked about her realizations in his experience, Jas shared, 
“Somehow, it reaffirmed the crucial and destabilizing role of shame for those starting or are completely unfamiliar with animal welfare, as implied by some of the fairgoers’ reluctance and hesitancy to be interviewed. While there are existing efforts to make the concepts accessible and digestible, hopefully, we also get to respond better and with empathy to the “affect” side of communicating the advocacy.”

Moreover, Jas challenged the notion of animal welfare as distant or irrelevant to daily life, emphasizing the inherent connection between humans and farmed animals. She suggested that recognizing this connection can bridge the gap between advocacy and everyday choices, encouraging individuals to make more informed decisions. 

Jas’s reflections underscore the importance of empowerment, understanding, and relevance in driving meaningful engagement and change within the animal welfare movement.

Overall, the reflections of AEP volunteers at Animal WelFair 2024 provided insights on how we can drive meaningful engagement within the local farmed animal welfare movement. Events like this provide valuable platforms for dialogue and collaboration, nurturing a community dedicated to creating a more compassionate world for all beings.

Animal Empathy Philippines

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The heat index has been making headlines in the country for the past weeks, and there’s one thing on everyone’s mind: cooling down. But what if I told you that you could not only cool down but also indulge in delicious frozen treats that are kind to animals and the planet? 

Say hello to a guilt-free summer with these delectable vegan delights!

1. Pan de Manila’s vegan ice cream

Renowned for their heavenly bread treats, Pan de Manila takes the plunge into the world of dairy-free indulgence with their Vegan Ice Cream lineup. Free from dairy and gluten, and crafted entirely from plant-based ingredients, their flavors are a mix of classics and unique twists. From creamy Avocado to tropical Buko and luscious Ube, there’s a flavor to suit every palate. Don’t miss out on the refreshing Mango and the timeless Cookies and Cream!

2. Superscoops

True to their vision in creating a brand that’s rooted in goodness, Superscoops presents a diverse array of vegan options, including their heavenly Vegan Ice Cream offerings. With flavors like the rich Ube Bliss, decadent Dark Chocolate, and the refreshing Strawberries and Cream, each spoonful is a symphony of flavor. 

3. Delicielo’s Panutsa ice cream

For fans of traditional sweeteners, Delicielo delivers a vegan twist on the classic Panutsa with their irresistible Panutsa Caramel Crunch Ice Cream. Dive into a world of creamy caramel goodness, accentuated by the delightful crunch of roasted cacao nibs and nuts. It’s a nostalgic delight with a compassionate touch that promises to enchant your taste buds.

4. Ice Cream City’s Manila Vegan ice cream

Indulge in guilt-free pleasure with Ice Cream City’s Manila’s exquisite Vegan Ice Cream selection. Crafted without dairy, these treats are 100% plant-based and cholesterol-free. Sweetened with low-glycemic organic coconut sap or pure Grade A organic maple syrup, and bursting with real, fresh ingredients, each scoop is a celebration of flavor and sustainability.

This summer, beat the heat with compassion by treating yourself to these divine vegan frozen delights. From classic flavors to innovative creations, these treats offer a refreshing escape while aligning with your values.

So, grab a spoon and savor the sweetness of a cruelty-free summer!

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