Award-winning Kapamilya actress Jodi Sta. Maria has been officially introduced as the cat ambassador for the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) under its heartwarming campaign, Puso Para Sa Puspin.
The initiative seeks to promote kindness and compassion toward native Philippine cats, or “puspins,” many of whom are homeless or strays roaming the streets.
Sta. Maria’s new role aligns seamlessly with her personal passion as a cat rescuer. The actress first captured public attention when she rescued Naya, a puspin who quickly became a viral sensation. At the launch event, Jodi shared that Naya wasn’t her first rescue, reflecting her deep-rooted commitment to animal welfare. An advocate for PAWS since 2014, Sta. Maria’s appointment as ambassador strengthens her dedication to responsible fur-parenting and amplifies the organization’s reach.
The press conference celebrating her debut was a significant moment for PAWS. Sta. Maria spearheaded the unveiling of two sub-programs under Puso Para Sa Puspin: Love, Save, & Adapt, which promotes adoption to give stray cats loving homes, and Kung Mahal Mo, ipa-Kapon Mo, which advocates spaying and neutering to address overpopulation. Both initiatives underscore PAWS’ mission to foster responsible pet ownership nationwide.
While PAWS continues its vital work, the organization faces challenges as an NGO with limited financial resources. Although it has yet to open additional shelters in other parts of the country, PAWS is actively collaborating with local groups to ensure its campaigns, like Puso Para Sa Puspin, reach beyond Metro Manila. Sta. Maria’s involvement as a celebrity ambassador was praised as a game-changer in this effort. Notably, she personally reached out to PAWS to join their cause—a move commended by the organization, as celebrities like her have a unique ability to amplify pro-pet campaigns and connect with wider audiences.
During the event, Sta. Maria addressed the pressing issue of stray cat overpopulation. “Ang pinakamaganda talaga diyan is, ipa-kapon,” she said. “Kahit ganito, ang scenario, hindi man lahat ng tao ay may puspin or aspin, or kahit sabihin mong merong breed, ang ina-advocate pa rin namin is to have them spayed or neutered para hindi dumadami.” She emphasized the need to curb uncontrolled breeding, which often leads to more abandoned animals.
The actress also spoke out against irresponsible breeding practices, criticizing those who produce litters of cats or dogs without the capacity to care for them, only to give them away. “This only magnifies the chance of creating more stray cats,” she cautioned, noting that there’s no assurance that recipients will provide proper care. Her advocacy centers on a practical, compassionate solution—spaying and neutering to reduce pet homelessness.
With her influence and genuine passion, Sta. Maria is poised to elevate PAWS’ mission to new heights. Her involvement in Puso Para Sa Puspin not only highlights her love for animals but also inspires Filipinos to take action, making her a powerful voice for the country’s puspins and a beacon of hope for a more compassionate future.
