NEWS

Valenzuela introduces first search-and-rescue dog for disaster response

Gabriela Baron

Valenzuela City introduced its first ever search-and-rescue dog for its disaster risk reduction and management unit.

According to the local government unit, "Tokyo" was adopted by Eugene Magbitang of Valenzuela City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (VCDRRMO).

Magbitang trains Tokyo daily for her to be prepared for the Metro Manila Development Authority's certification for K-9 dogs.

"They also had hopes for Tokyo to be of service of the community, which led to the idea of training Tokyo as a VCDRRMO K-9 dog," the Valenzuela City LGU wrote on Facebook.

"Once certified, Tokyo will be a big asset for our VCDRRMO and will be a big help for deployment for landslides, structural collapses, and other similar events," it added.

Magbitang said he barely met any difficulties training Tokyo, as she already knows basic obedience and has agility and stamina.