Army K9s Win Public Praise for Locating Landslide Victims

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In Quezon, Bukidnon, Army K9 units have received public admiration for their role in finding the bodies of Ely and Thelma Ubatay, victims of a landslide. After a five-day search, the K9s named Venom, Paul, and Bella helped rescue teams recover the couple on Thursday. The dogs have been lauded on social media for their bravery, with calls for their handlers to ensure they receive excellent care.

This successful operation was carried out by the 89th Infantry Battalion with the K9s trained by the 403rd and 1003rd Infantry Brigades. Although the K9 units are primarily trained for bomb detection, they are also equipped for search and retrieval operations during calamities. The disaster in Quezon struck on the evening of October 18, and the rescue mission commenced on October 19, led by local disaster risk reduction officials.

The Ubatays were the only casualties from the landslide in the region. As a tribute, they were laid to rest on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is evaluating the damage caused by the landslide to the Davao-Bukidnon highway, an important economic route in the area.

Roshelle Novie Cabrido, spokesperson for DPWH-Region 10, stated that district engineers are working on a rehabilitation plan for the highway. The geotechnical engineering department is conducting studies to determine the necessary structure for repairs and is examining the soil characteristics to ensure a safe reconstruction.

Looking forward, these assessments and repairs will determine how quickly the critical highway can be reopened to support local commerce and transportation. The success of the K9 units underscores the importance of continued training and preparedness for natural disasters.

Key Takeaways

• Army K9s praised for aiding recovery of landslide victims in Bukidnon.
• Rehabilitation plans are underway for the Davao-Bukidnon highway.
• Community and experts commend the effectiveness of search operations.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-10-23