It was business as usual for Felix the Cat on July 1, 2025 — except this time, instead of prowling the halls of Angeles City Hall, he began his new assignment at the House of Representatives.

Felix, a five-year-old domestic shorthair or ‘Puspin’ (Pusang Pinoy), made the leap from local to national service alongside his long-time human, former Angeles City Mayor and now Pampanga First District Representative Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr.

A fixture in Mayor Lazatin’s office since 2019, Felix was first rescued as a kitten within city hall grounds by the City Veterinary Office’s Eder Pasamonte. He was later adopted by then Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel and officially named the office’s ‘Rat Control Officer’ —a role he performed with quiet dedication for six years.

Now taking up residence in Lazatin’s new congressional office, Felix brings not only his pest control expertise but also a dose of furry charm. Though his job remains largely the same—keeping the workplace rodent-free—insiders say his day will likely include more naps and the occasional pantry patrol.

Felix’s health and welfare continue to be a priority. He has been neutered and receives regular vaccinations, courtesy of the City Veterinary Office.

Beyond his presence, Felix represents a broader advocacy that Lazatin has championed throughout his public service: animal welfare.

During his tenure as mayor, Lazatin signed into law Ordinance No. 668, s-2023, the Animal Welfare and Protection Code of Angeles City. This landmark ordinance led to the creation of a ‘no-kill’ Angeles City Dog Pound and Animal Shelter, inaugurated in July 2023, which shelters rescued animals and facilitates their rehoming or adoption.

As he begins his first term in Congress, Lazatin has vowed to continue advancing animal welfare as part of his broader legislative platform anchored on the principle of “Alang Malalakwan”—a pledge to leave no one, and no creature, behind.

With Felix now at his side in the national arena, that promise seems just a little more paw-sible.