CEBU — Cebu City is celebrating a heartwarming milestone in animal welfare as pet adoptions reached a record-breaking 170 from January to August 2026. The figure already exceeds every full-year adoption total recorded since the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF) began tracking, reflecting a powerful community commitment to rescued animals.
A Surge in Compassion
The dramatic increase represents a 360 percent jump from the 37 adoptions recorded throughout 2025. Mayor Nestor Archival highlighted this achievement during the city's National Dog Day celebration on August 27. He personally welcomed adoptable dogs from the Cebu City Animal Care and Control Center, underscoring the city government's dedication to animal welfare.
The adoption figures tell a story of growing awareness and advocacy. From 51 adoptions in 2022, numbers steadily climbed to 62 in 2023, then surged to 138 in 2024. After a decline to 37 in 2025, this year's remarkable rebound signals strengthened community engagement and effective city-led campaigns.
A Call to Adopt, Not Shop
Mayor Archival delivered a clear message to residents considering a new pet: "Don't shop. Adopt." He emphasized that dogs and cats at the city animal care facility are waiting for permanent homes and loving families. The mayor framed pet adoption as an act of compassion that transforms both the animal's life and the adopter's family.
"Atong mga pets kabahin sa atong pamilya, ug angay silang ampingan," Archival reminded residents. He stressed that pets are family members deserving of proper care, attention, and respect. This message aims to shift the culture toward responsible pet ownership across the city.
Responsible Ownership and Community Support
Beyond adoption, Archival urged pet owners to vaccinate, spay, or neuter their animals. These measures protect animal health, prevent overpopulation, and promote community safety. The DVMF office stands ready to provide these essential services to Cebu City residents.
The mayor extended gratitude to adopters, foster families, volunteers, donors, and everyone involved in animal care. He specifically acknowledged an anonymous donor who contributed three sacks of dog food. Such contributions help sustain the care of rescued pets still awaiting their forever homes.
A Simple Path to Giving a Home
Residents interested in adopting from the Cebu City Animal Care and Control Center must follow a straightforward process. Prospective adopters should visit the Cebu City Pound in Barangay Mabolo during weekday office hours with a valid ID. A brief interview and screening follow to assess the applicant's ability to provide proper pet care.
Qualified adopters then complete and sign the official adoption agreement form. The standard adoption fee is ₱200. This accessible process ensures that rescued animals find safe, loving homes while promoting responsible ownership.
A Community United for Animal Welfare
The record-breaking adoption numbers demonstrate Cebu City's collective heart. Each adoption represents a rescued life transformed and a family enriched. The surge reflects stronger advocacy, generous residents, and a government committed to animal welfare.
As the year continues, the DVMF remains open for adoptions, vaccinations, and spay-neuter services. The city's animal welfare efforts stand as a model of compassion and community action. Cebu City proves that a single act of kindness can create ripples of positive change.
