A video showing a man spinning and repeatedly slamming a python in the middle of a road in Davao City has gone viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism from netizens.
The footage was shared on Facebook by Sarenas Amerson. It shows a large snake blocking the roadway before a man suddenly grabbed it, pulled it away, and began swinging it around. The man was later seen striking the python several times as travelers and motorists stopped and watched the incident.
The video quickly spread online and prompted strong reactions, with many users condemning the man’s actions and questioning why the animal was treated in such a manner. Several commenters asked who the “real animal” was in the scene, criticizing what they described as unnecessary harm.
Others said the situation could have been handled more safely by contacting authorities trained in wildlife response. Some netizens stressed that dangerous animals such as pythons should be surrendered to the proper government agency rather than being hurt in public.
Commenters also pointed to laws that prohibit cruelty against animals, including the Animal Welfare Act. Some cited the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which regulates the handling of wildlife species in the Philippines.
Several netizens said the appropriate action would have been to report the snake’s presence or turn it over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, which is tasked with wildlife protection and management.
The video has continued circulating widely, renewing public discussion about animal welfare and the proper response when wildlife is encountered in urban areas.
Authorities have not released additional information about the man involved or the condition of the python following the incident.
