Chinese National Arrested for Overstaying After Viral Cat-Kicking Incident
A Chinese national who gained attention for allegedly kicking a cat to death in Makati City has been arrested for overstaying
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Jiang Shan, was taken into custody in front of his residence in Barangay Palanan. Authorities discovered that he arrived in the Philippines as a tourist in May 2023 but failed to extend his visa after September of the same year.
“BI records show that the foreigner arrived as a tourist in the country on May 2023, but has not extended his visa since September 2023,” the agency said.
Since he could not present any valid documents, he was immediately detained and transferred to the BI facility in Bicutan, Taguig.
Jiang’s arrest came after he was caught on surveillance footage kicking a community cat named Ken, who was peacefully resting at Ayala Triangle Park. The cat later succumbed to its injuries.
“Filipinos are known to be very hospitable to our guests. But guests should not come to our houses kicking our pets,” Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said.
The incident sparked outrage among social media users and animal welfare groups, who called for justice over the senseless act of cruelty.
Witnesses said Jiang refused to cooperate when confronted by barangay officials and concerned citizens. He reportedly declined to provide his address and instead told an animal welfare group to raise the matter with the Chinese Embassy.
Under Philippine law, harming or killing animals is punishable by fines and imprisonment. The Bureau of Immigration emphasized that while the country is known for its hospitality, visitors are expected to follow the law and treat animals with care.
With Jiang now in detention, authorities are proceeding with the deportation process. His case serves as a reminder that acts of cruelty, regardless of nationality, have consequences in the Philippines.
In a previous post, a community cat dies after being kicked by Chinese man in Makati City
The social media users expressed their reactions to the arrest:
