Tricycle Driver in Viral Cat-Dragging Incident Explains His Side of Story
A tricycle driver in Malasiqui, Pangasinan has come forward to explain his side in a viral cat-dragging incident.
The viral video captured him allegedly dragging a tied-up cat behind his vehicle. The incident sparked outrage among animal lovers and netizens, who called the act as cruel and inhumane.
In the video, a concerned individual named Ken could be heard shouting at the driver, pleading for him to stop as the cat, tied to the tricycle, was visibly in pain and struggling. Despite the shouts, the driver continued moving until Ken blocked his way and forced him to stop.
During the confrontation, the driver admitted he intended to abandon the cat, leading to further condemnation.
Animal welfare groups, including the Animal Kingdom Foundation and PAWS, expressed their anger over the act and urged the public to report similar cases immediately. Thankfully, barangay officials later rescued the injured cat and ensured it received proper care.
Recently, the driver, identified as 71-year-old June Mendoza, explained his side to authorities. He claimed his hearing impairment made him unaware of the tied-up cat.
He added that he was not responsible for tying the cat to the vehicle, suggesting children might have done it without his knowledge. Mendoza stated that he had no intention of harming the animal and immediately stopped once alerted by someone shouting behind him.
Mendoza apologized publicly, asking for understanding and forgiveness for what happened. He expressed regret for the incident and assured everyone it was not intentional.
“Ako si june Mendoza 71 years old, ako po yong driver na nag viral kahapon na may nakataling pusa ng hindi ko alam. Kung sino ang nag tali na maaring mga bata na posibleng ang nag tali.
Humihingi ako ng paumanhin, dahil sa kahinaan ng aking pandinig, ng hindi ko alam na may pusang naka tali sa likod ng aking tricycle,” he said.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the post:
READ ALSO: Cat Caught on Camera Being Dragged Behind Tricycle in Pangasinan