Carabao saved from slaughter after viral TikTok post in the Philippines
A 32-year-old carabao in the Philippines was rescued from slaughter after a TikTok post about its fate went viral. The ageing work animal, which supported a family for decades, was bought back with donated funds, sparking calls for better treatment of long-serving farm animals.
- TikTok post saves ageing carabao from slaughter.
- Public donations raised 50,000 pesos to buy the animal.
- Story renews calls for humane treatment of work animals.
A Lifetime of Service
An ageing carabao in the Philippines, once the backbone of a family’s livelihood, has been spared from slaughter after a TikTok post about its fate gained widespread attention.
The water buffalo had worked for more than 32 years on a farm in Bongabong, central Philippines — ploughing fields, hauling loads, and helping its owner support five children through school.
A Chance Encounter Goes Viral
On 12 November 2025, 21-year-old Jezreel Beoncio was assigned to transport the animal to a slaughterhouse after it grew too weak to work.
Seeing the carabao’s condition and its owner in tears, he instead posted the story on TikTok, hoping to raise awareness about the lack of appreciation for working animals.
The video garnered nearly three million views, drawing an unexpected wave of public support.
Community Steps In
Although the post was not intended as a fundraiser, viewers began sending donations.
With about 50,000 pesos (US$840), Beoncio was able to buy the carabao just a day before its scheduled slaughter.
A potential adopter initially volunteered but later backed out, leaving Beoncio — a student with limited resources — to care for the animal temporarily as he continues searching for a permanent home.
Calls for Better Treatment of Work Animals
Animal rights group Bataan Animal Welfare said the carabao, by human standards, would be considered a “senior citizen” deserving rest and humane treatment.
The group criticised the practice of sending ageing work animals to slaughter despite decades of service.
The Carabao’s Role in Philippine Agriculture
Carabaos are regarded as essential in many rural communities, often referred to as “living tractors.”
They help plough rice fields, transport goods, and support farm work that remains largely manual across the Philippines.
A Reminder of Loyalty and Labour
For Beoncio, the carabao’s rescue highlights the unseen contributions of working animals: “He served faithfully until he no longer had the strength. He deserves more than to be sold by the kilo.”
0 Comments