Metro Manila Dogs Association K-9 Corps recharge in Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown before heading to ground zero
On the evening of September 30, 2025, Cebu was struck by a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that claimed lives, caused billions in damages, and left families without homes or food.
Amid the rubble and grief, heroes have emerged in many forms, from first responders and volunteers to the Metro Manila Dogs Association (MMDA) K-9 Corps. These four-legged rescuers and their handlers traveled to Bogo City to lend their strength in the ongoing relief operations, offering not just their skills, but a much-needed “helping paw.”
Among them is Ghost, a German Shepherd who has already been deployed three times in her career. Ghost first served in Batangas City during a landslide, then in Tagaytay, and now in Bogo City alongside her handler, Ms. Sheryl Impacis. Together, they embody the quiet yet undeniable impact of service: searching, supporting, and standing beside communities in their darkest hours.
Before making their way to Bogo, the MMDA K9 Corps paused briefly at Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown. As a pet-inclusive hotel, Savoy welcomed the team and their canine partners with care, offering them a safe space to rest and recharge. It was a small act, but one that reinforced a greater cause. Even the quietest forms of support can help prepare those on the frontlines to keep going.
“While our pet policy usually welcomes only small and medium dogs, we made an exception for Ghost and the MMDA K-9 Corps because of the extraordinary circumstances. It was a small way for us at Savoy Hotel Mactan to be of help, and we are grateful to have been able to provide them with a place to rest before continuing their important work in the community,” Josef Chiongbian, General Manager of Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, said.
Ghost, along with her handler and fellow volunteers, made their way to ground zero to aid in the search for survivors. Since 2016, the MMDA K-9 Corps has trained hundreds of dogs to respond in times of crisis, preparing them and their handlers for the toughest of emergencies. Over the years, the group has volunteered in numerous search and rescue operations, standing ready whenever communities need them most.
Now that Cebu’s search and rescue operations have concluded, stories like Ghost’s remind us that courage takes many forms. Sometimes it is seen in the bravery of first responders, sometimes in the resilience of survivors, and sometimes, in the loyalty of a dog’s helping paw.
Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.
