The UPMV-K9 Search and Rescue Corps is inviting dog owners in Metro Manila and nearby provinces to train with their canine companions and help prepare their communities for disasters, including the potentially devastating West Valley Fault earthquake known as “The Big One.”
This free volunteer program aims to equip ordinary citizens and their dogs with practical skills in obedience, agility, search and rescue, and disaster preparedness. It also promotes responsible pet ownership and stewardship, particularly for emergencies when families may be forced to evacuate their homes: the UPMV-K9 Corps firmly believes that pets are beloved family members that also deserve protection, proper care, and a chance to survive emergencies.
Applications for the organization’s 14th training batch are open until November 28, 2026.
Preparing for the worst
A major focus of the initiative is preparing Metro Manila residents, especially pet owners, for a possible magnitude 7.2 earthquake along the West Valley Fault. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the fault has historically generated major earthquakes at intervals of approximately 400 to 600 years, with its last major movement occurring in 1658.
Although scientists cannot predict exactly when the next earthquake will occur, PHIVOLCS has warned that it could happen within the present generation or the next—a looming disaster dubbed “The Big One.” A 2004 government earthquake impact study estimated that a magnitude 7.2 earthquake could cause approximately 34,000 deaths and 114,000 injuries in Metro Manila alone, with additional casualties possible from fires and other secondary hazards.
For the UPMV-K9 Corps, these risks underscore the importance of preparing not only people but also their pets, which are equally vulnerable during disasters. The Corps advocates including animals in household disaster preparedness and evacuation plans, ensuring that owners know how to handle, protect, and evacuate their pets safely. Its training programs also encourage dog owners to develop the discipline, communication, and teamwork needed to respond effectively during emergencies.
Beyond responsible pet ownership, the initiative seeks to increase the number of trained civilian volunteers who can support search-and-rescue operations during earthquakes, landslides, and other natural disasters. Participants undergo progressive training in canine handling, obedience, agility, and basic search techniques, with more advanced programs covering first aid, basic life support, personal survival, and other emergency response skills.
Ten years of service and preparedness
Established in September 2017 and based in the University of the Philippines-Diliman with the initiative and support of UP Vanguard, Inc., the UPMV-K9 Corps has trained successive batches of civilian volunteers and their canine companions.
Formally registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission in 2021, the Corps also promotes animal welfare, humanitarian relief, and community education. It maintains close cooperation with the UP Vanguard Makati Chapter, serving as a social responsibility partner in outreach programs, particularly the chapter’s Luntian at Pula initiative.
The opening of Batch 14 comes as the UPMV-K9 Search and Rescue Corps prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2027, marking a decade of volunteerism, disaster preparedness, and community service.
Interested dog owners in Metro Manila and nearby provinces may register at https://tinyurl.com/
Through Batch 14, the Corps hopes to encourage more Filipinos to turn their love for their pets into meaningful public service, helping protect families, save lives, and build more disaster-resilient communities.
FAQs & REGISTRATION HERE: https://tinyurl.com/UPMVBATCH14
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