Iloilo City mayor backs CNVR, but only in select barangays

By John Laurence S. Longanilla, Daily Guardian Intern

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas said the city is open to implementing the catch, neuter, vaccinate, return (CNVR) strategy to control the stray animal population — but only in selected barangays with adequate space and larger populations.

“We will review it. This is a good program, but it is better if this is in places that have big spaces […] I am supportive, but on a case-to-case basis where we will return them,” Treñas said on Monday, July 28.

She expressed concern over stray animals scattering trash in densely populated areas.

“Ask the barangays — who’s scattering the garbage? The plastic and trash from the drop-off points — it’s the dogs,” she said.

“If a stray dog has no owner and we return it to a crowded barangay, we won’t be able to control the waste problem.”

The mayor emphasized that in compact urban areas, releasing stray animals without monitoring could worsen sanitation issues.

CNVR is promoted as a humane and effective method for managing stray animal populations, particularly dogs and cats.

The strategy involves catching stray animals, neutering or spaying them to prevent reproduction, vaccinating them against diseases such as rabies, and returning them to their original territory.

Cebu City has fully adopted the CNVR program citywide since June 2024.

In Iloilo City, the Office of the City Veterinarian (OCV) has conducted similar efforts, though only on a limited scale through schools and organization-led initiatives.

The city currently impounds stray cats and dogs as part of its animal welfare efforts, operating the Iloilo City Pound and Animal Shelter under the OCV.

The facility serves as a temporary holding area where impounded animals are cared for and logged for possible transfer or adoption.

Iloilo City’s ordinance on animal welfare promotes humane treatment, rescue, rehabilitation, and regulation of stray animals, and includes free spay and neuter services for population control.

It also supports responsible pet ownership and mass anti-rabies vaccination campaigns.

Treñas confirmed that a formal meeting with animal welfare groups had been delayed due to recent weather disturbances, but initial talks have started.

She added that the city is listening to the concerns of animal welfare advocates and is working toward a collaborative solution.

“We’re reaching out to our animal advocates, and we’ll make sure they’re heard,” she said.

“We want a win-win solution for everyone.”