Actress Nadine Lustre has spoken out against an incident involving a dove that was reportedly harmed during an Easter Sunday “Salubong” presentation, calling attention to animal cruelty in religious activities.
The controversy stemmed from a now-viral incident at the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of the Immaculate Conception, where a live dove was allegedly used as part of the April 5 ritual. Reports stated that the bird’s wings were clipped and it was tied to balloons before being released—an act that reportedly led to its death.
Lustre expressed outrage over the treatment of the animal, criticizing the use of such a gimmick even in a religious setting. In her social media post, she also tagged PETA Asia, an organization she supports that advocates against animal cruelty.
PETA Asia reiterated its stance on the issue, stating, “Animals are not ours to experiment on, eat, wear, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way.”
The incident drew widespread criticism from animal welfare groups, including Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), which earlier expressed shock over reports that the dove was tied to a string, its wings “forcibly spread,” and hoisted as part of the ritual unveiling of the image of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
According to PAWS, the bird was later attached to balloons and released into the air, which reportedly resulted in its death.
Following the backlash, the Malabon parish issued a public apology.
“As Rector and Parish Priest of the Diocesan Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Malabon, I wish to convey my sincere apology regarding the reported balloon-flying incident during the Salubong ritual this past Easter Sunday,” the statement read.
The Diocese of Kalookan, which oversees the parish, also released a separate apology, describing the act as “regrettable.”
“It has since been brought to our attention that the pigeon was instead tied to a cluster of balloons, with its wings restrained, and released into the air. This act is regrettable,” the diocese said.
The statement clarified that Pablo Virgilio David, who was present during the event, was unaware of the dove being tied to balloons. The cardinal had earlier objected to the practice, noting that it is harmful not only to animals but also to the environment, particularly marine life that may ingest deflated balloons.
In response to the incident, the parish said it would discontinue the use of balloons in future celebrations.
“There will be no more balloon-flying in future celebrations, and the dove will be released immediately after the unveiling,” the diocese added.
PAWS also called for more humane alternatives in religious practices, emphasizing compassion toward animals.
“While PAWS respects the devotion to bring the Easter story to life, the use of a live animal in a manner that causes distress or harm is inconsistent with the values of compassion, stewardship and care for all of creation,” the group said.
The organization further stressed that “cruelty has no place in any type of gathering,” urging communities to uphold kindness toward all living creatures.
