The UPMV K9 SAR Corps joined the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in a seminar on canine first aid to improve the appreciation and care of dogs in local communities, especially those involved in search and rescue (SAR) efforts.
Held at the MMDA headquarters in Napindan, Taguig, the event was attended by several disaster response groups including the MMDA’s own K9 SAR Unit and other K9 SAR volunteers.


(From left) UPMV K9 Corps Secretary Gladys Fresnoza, External Affairs Officer Gigie Binsol, and SAR Batch 10 graduate Joanna Miranda familiarize themselves with a basic K9 first aid kit under the supervision of veterinary professionals at the MMDA headquarters in Taguig City (Photos from UPMV K9 SARS Corps)
Veterinary professionals covered a wide range of topics, including CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) for dogs, and emergency first aid for wounds, heatstroke and poisoning.
MMDA K9 Unit head Franco Jornacion underscored the invaluable role of dogs in SAR operations including earthquakes.
“The conduct of this type of training is very timely especially for us as citizens of Metro Manila who are preparing for the Big One. It is a good reminder to take care of our animal companions, including our working dogs,” said Jornacion.
He added, “Our K9s are very essential and reliable companions to ensure efficiency in carrying out our mission of Search and Rescue in times of disaster. As we save the injured victims in collapsed structures, it is also imperative to be mindful of the safety and protection of our K-9 partners as they aid us in accomplishing this life-saving work,” he added.
UMPV K9 President Elah Tendero thanked Jornacion and the MMDA for their help and support in promoting community-based SAR as well as canine first aid.
“We are grateful to the MMDA for spearheading this effort, which enables SAR K9 handlers and home pet owners alike to better care for our dogs. These invaluable new skills help ensure that our beloved fur companions are happy, healthy, and ready to serve our communities,” Tendero said.
Future improved versions of the MMDA K9 First Aid Seminar are expected to be held.
Meanwhile, both the UPMV K9 SAR Corps and the MMDA K9 Unit continue to regularly provide free SAR training to the public.