Manila, Feb. 13 -- Senator Grace Poe on Thursday denounced the alleged neglect and abuse of animals at a Masbate dog pound after a video surfaced showing a dead dog left inside the facility.

In a statement, Poe called the incident "deplorable" and urged accountability for those responsible.

She emphasized that local government-run pounds should serve as humane facilities and comply with the Animal Welfare Act.

"Sadly, as manifested by this incident, wanton neglect is a daily reality for many animals under the care of some barangays (villages)," she said.

The senator renewed her call for the passage of a bill seeking to strengthen animal welfare laws before the current Congress adjourns.

The proposed measure includes the creation of a...