Pia Cabral Addresses Backlash Over Teasing Animals
PIA CABRAL – The Taytay, Rizal Vice Mayor and re-electionist issued a public apology after a video from her house-to-house campaign went viral, drawing criticism from netizens.
The clip showed her seemingly teasing animals, including a dog and a goat, with the caption “Aso ka lang by Pia Cabral #Day13.” Many online users criticized the video, calling it unnecessary and insensitive, especially toward animals.
In response to the backlash, Vice Mayor Cabral took down the video and addressed the issue in a Facebook post on April 11. She clarified that she had no bad intentions and did not harm or belittle any animals. “Nais ko pong linawin na wala po akong masamang intensyon at wala akong minaliit o sinaktan na hayop. Tinanggal ko na rin agad ang post upang hindi na ito makadagdag sa anumang sama ng loob,” she wrote.
Cabral emphasized that she is a pet lover and considers her own pets—Sunday, Smart, and Bachi—as part of her family. She explained that the video was intended to be light-hearted and playful, and she hadn’t anticipated that it would be perceived negatively. “Ang post ay bahagi lang sana ng masayang pakikipagkulitan ko sa ating mga alaga. Ngunit nauunawaan ko na hindi pala pare-pareho ang magiging interpretasyon ng lahat,” she said.
Regarding the controversial caption “Aso ka lang”, Cabral explained that it was merely an expression. “Isa lamang po itong expression na kahit maraming aso patungo sa ating nasasakupan ay aabutin ko po kayo dahil gusto kong maiparating sa inyo ang aking mga platapoma at mga programa na gagawin. Hindi ako mapipigilan ng anumang tahol dahil mahal ko ang aking mga kababayan,” she said.
She also shared that she has authored several local ordinances and resolutions promoting animal welfare in Taytay. Cabral reassured the public that her actions were never meant to scare or mock animals and reiterated her advocacy for their well-being.
Despite her explanation, the video triggered strong reactions from netizens, many of whom urged politicians to show genuine compassion—especially toward stray and defenseless animals.