Roel Arboleda, a 34-year-old cat lover from Dagupan City, has been taking care of stray cats since 2017.

Starting with just 17 cats, he now looks after 43 cats in his home located in a subdivision in Barangay Bonuan Guget.

Arboleda’s love for animals began at a young age, with dreams of becoming a veterinarian.

Although he pursued a degree in Medical Technology to please his parents, his passion for rescuing animals never faded.

"Actually, ‘pag nag-aalaga ka ng pusa, nakakapagod, [pero] at the end of the day, ‘pag kasama ko na sila, nawawala ‘yung stress ko," Arboleda said.

He spends around P20,000 every month for the food and care of his cats.

Despite the expenses, his family, including relatives abroad, supports his advocacy fully.

Arboleda even dedicates his birthday to the cats, feeding them instead of his friends.

“[Si] Pinky [at] Joey [ay] galing sa Mt. Zion,” he said, listing the names of some of his cats, whom he knows personally.

Arboleda’s message to other pet owners is clear:

"Unang-una sa mga may alagang cats, dogs, alagaan, ‘wag ina-abandon. Kung maliliit pa, hindi mag-su-survive," he said.

He is committed to caring for his cats until the very end of their lives.