QuestionsQuestions (BAI ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 06, S. 2013)
It is issued pursuant to Republic Act No. 8485 (Animal Welfare Act of 1998) and serves as its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) on rodeos.
Cattle and horses.
They are duly licensed veterinarians, preferably with experience in rodeo events, appointed by rodeo organizers and deputized as Animal Welfare Officers to be responsible for animal welfare (including ensuring animals are apparently healthy and disqualifying unfit animals).
At least two (2) Animal Welfare Marshalls should be appointed and present in each rodeo event.
There should be two (2) accredited rodeo veterinarians in any event; the veterinarian is the final arbiter on whether an animal is fit for competition.
Prior to the start (and after each event, if multiple events), veterinarians inspect all animals to determine fitness both before the start and after events to check if animals remain fit to compete.
Within 30 calendar days after the event; it must include names/contacts of organizers, judges and attending veterinarians; number and type of events and animals used; number/types/severity of injuries; breaches and corrective actions; and actions against non-compliant personnel.
Within 15 calendar days after the event; it must include the rodeo date/location; names/contacts of organizers, judges and attending veterinarian; number/types of events and animals used; injury details; breaches and corrective actions.
The arena should be examined to ensure it is free of holes, rocks, obstacles, and other sharp/hazardous objects; it must be sufficiently spacious and use appropriate soil-based surface (e.g., rotary hoed/softened to about 8–10 cm), with other surfaces well drained for secure footing.
Euthanasia and well-maintained destruction equipment such as captive bolt and licensed firearms (not less than .22 calibers) must be in the venue/site during any rodeo event.
No stimulants, hypnotic, or other substances are to be used on any animal other than those prescribed by a veterinary practitioner for legitimate treatment of injury or illness.
No sore, lame, sick, injured, or sight-impaired animal is permitted; animals showing extreme stress must be turned out of the chute; animals deemed unsuitable by the livestock supervisor must be withdrawn immediately.
Cattle and horses must be penned separately in the yards and during transport.
Spurs are not permitted as a goad; they must not be used cruelly/excessively and must meet the specific spur specifications described.
Electric pods may only protect safety of humans and animals under strict conditions (low amperage, low powered by dry cell batteries, commercially available and not modified, used minimally and only on hindquarters and shoulder). They are prohibited in the arena under any circumstances and have specific restrictions for certain riding/time-event situations.
Pulling an animal backward off its feet (jerk down) or dragging a roped animal is unacceptable; violations include pulling a calf backwards off its feet or dragging it more than one meter after it is tied.
The time limit is 30 seconds from when the barrier is released. If the competitor continues to tie after the 30-second siren (or after the calf is jerked down/dragged), they should be disqualified.
Acts of neglect, torture, killing, inadequate care, sustenance or shelter, or other prohibited practices are considered prohibited and shall be prosecuted under Section 6 of RA 8485; administrative sanctions such as cancellation of permit/registration and suspension/revocation of accreditation may also be imposed.