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Thursday, November 14, 2024

IAPWA: Saving aspins and endangered animals in the Philippines

Unknown to many Filipinos, a UK-based animal welfare group engaged in the fight against the dog meat trade in the Philippines from late 2017 to the close of 2019. Over those two years, their rescue operations led to numerous raids and the rescue of over 60 dogs destined for slaughter.

International Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) funded at least 10 operations against the dog meat trade (DMT) and provided for the upkeep of the rescued Filipino dogs.

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IAPWA has been a beacon of hope for animals in need. Founded by Nicky Stevens, this UK charity has been instrumental in fighting the cruel dog meat trade here in the Philippines, albeit cut short by the onset of the 2020 global pandemic. Their commitment extends beyond rescue, also ensuring the well-being and rehabilitation of these animals. From its humble beginnings aiding a single stray dog in Borneo, IAPWA’s reach has expanded significantly, offering veterinary care and securing loving homes for thousands of cats and dogs around the world. This organization exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated individuals and groups can have on animal welfare and the fight against inhumane practices worldwide.

This dog is one of many saved from dog meat traders. The dog was also treated for severe mange. (Photo from author.)

Continuing its campaign in the country at the onset of 2024, IAPWA has indeed made significant strides, this time, in wildlife conservation in the Philippines.

With the passionate desire to save animals, Nicky Stevens, founder and chief executive officer (CEO), and Rebecca Lewthwaite, head of Individual Giving, in collaboration with a dedicated team on the ground, have been instrumental in the rescue of endangered species since March 2024. This includes the Philippine pangolin and the Talking Mynah in the Palawan region.

These efforts are crucial, especially considering the vulnerable status of the pangolin, which is often cited as the most trafficked mammal in the world. The organization’s proactive operations in Palawan reflect a growing global awareness and commitment to animal welfare.

Despite being a younger organization, IAPWA’s impact is noteworthy, demonstrating that with dedication and targeted actions, even smaller groups can contribute meaningfully to the global conservation effort and influence positive change for wildlife protection.

You can read more about IAPWA’s Philippine wildlife campaign on their website: https://iapwa.org/ and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IAPWA where you can also sign the petition to protect these adorable, but greatly vulnerable species: https://iapwa.org/pangolin-petition/

The rescued dog above is now completely healed. (Photo from author)

An excerpt from the petition:

Wildlife protection groups are willing to join the fight against this abhorrent criminal activity. However, we need the serious participation of local leaders such as governors and mayors, as well as law enforcement agencies, to effectively operate against this illicit trade and bring the criminals to justice. Please sign and share the petition below and play your part in protecting the Philippine pangolin and other endangered wildlife from further decline.

Please support IAPWA and sign the petition today: Pangolin Petition – IAPWA

About the Author: Greg Salido Quimpo played a big part in the rescue of thousands of slaughter-bound dogs in the country. Together with a group of British and Filipino advocates, he significantly advanced the awareness on animal welfare in the Philippines. He is currently a consultant to the UK’s NoToDogMeat movement.By Greg Salido Quimpo Inline image

Unknown to many Filipinos, a UK-based animal welfare group engaged in the fight against the dog meat trade in the Philippines from late 2017 to the close of 2019. Over those two years, their rescue operations led to numerous raids and the rescue of over 60 dogs destined for slaughter.

International Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) funded at least 10 operations against the dog meat trade (DMT) and provided for the upkeep of the rescued Filipino dogs.

IAPWA has been a beacon of hope for animals in need. Founded by Nicky Stevens, this UK charity has been instrumental in fighting the cruel dog meat trade here in the Philippines, albeit cut short by the onset of the 2020 global pandemic. Their commitment extends beyond rescue, also ensuring the well-being and rehabilitation of these animals. From its humble beginnings aiding a single stray dog in Borneo, IAPWA’s reach has expanded significantly, offering veterinary care and securing loving homes for thousands of cats and dogs around the world. This organization exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated individuals and groups can have on animal welfare and the fight against inhumane practices worldwide.

Continuing its campaign in the country at the onset of 2024, IAPWA has indeed made significant strides, this time, in wildlife conservation in the Philippines.

With the passionate desire to save animals, Nicky Stevens, founder and chief executive officer (CEO), and Rebecca Lewthwaite, head of Individual Giving, in collaboration with a dedicated team on the ground, have been instrumental in the rescue of endangered species since March 2024. This includes the Philippine pangolin and the Talking Mynah in the Palawan region.

These efforts are crucial, especially considering the vulnerable status of the pangolin, which is often cited as the most trafficked mammal in the world. The organization’s proactive operations in Palawan reflect a growing global awareness and commitment to animal welfare.

Despite being a younger organization, IAPWA’s impact is noteworthy, demonstrating that with dedication and targeted actions, even smaller groups can contribute meaningfully to the global conservation effort and influence positive change for wildlife protection.

You can read more about IAPWA’s Philippine wildlife campaign on their website: https://iapwa.org/ and Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IAPWA where you can also sign the petition to protect these adorable, but greatly vulnerable species: https://iapwa.org/pangolin-petition/

An excerpt from the petition:

Wildlife protection groups are willing to join the fight against this abhorrent criminal activity. However, we need the serious participation of local leaders such as governors and mayors, as well as law enforcement agencies, to effectively operate against this illicit trade and bring the criminals to justice. Please sign and share the petition below and play your part in protecting the Philippine pangolin and other endangered wildlife from further decline.

Please support IAPWA and sign the petition today: Pangolin Petition – IAPWA

About the Author: Greg Salido Quimpo played a big part in the rescue of thousands of slaughter-bound dogs in the country. Together with a group of British and Filipino advocates, he significantly advanced the awareness on animal welfare in the Philippines. He is currently a consultant to the UK’s NoToDogMeat movement.

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