VP awards canine responders in Davao de Oro landslide

DAVAO CITY – Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday, Feb. 21, praised the crucial efforts of responders who participated in the search, rescue, and retrieval operations in landslide-hit Maco, Davao de Oro.

Duterte cited the heroism of the Philippine Coast Guard search and rescue, specifically four SAR dogs, who played a vital role in the massive landslide in Barangay Masara that left over 90 persons dead and several others missing.

“Appa teaches us that anyone, regardless of labels, can make a difference. His courage reminds us to cherish our animal companions more,” Duterte said during the recognition ceremonies of the SAR unit of the PCG District-southeastern Mindanao.

The Vice President led the recognition ceremony for SAR personnel and their dogs for their contributions in recent SAR missions in the Davao region.

Appa, who received a bronze cross medal, is an Aspin (Asong Pinoy) and Golden Retriever mix and was instrumental in the rescue of a child survivor in the Masara landslide.

Aside from Appa, three other SAR dogs, Britney, Ivy, and Tiffa, including their handlers, received recognition for their crucial contributions to the SAR operations in Masara.

Duterte commended the responders for their bravery and compassion in times of disasters. “Your acts of courage and kindness helped the community survive those dark hours and kept their spirits alive providing much needed hope.”

She cited the special bond of Appa and handler Petty Officer 2 Alfie Baba, saying his love for his job mirrors the achievement in performing their tasks.

Baba, a native of Veruela, Agusan del Sur, admitted that he has been a dog lover since he was a kid. Since Baba was a kid, he dreamed of having a job that he could mix with his love for dogs.

He joined the PCG SAR and trained together with Appa for seven months. “We have been together in many SAR missions. I’m confident of Appa’s ability in our missions because he is a highly trained dog. Always 100 percent sure,” said Baba who was also a recipient of the Bronze Cross Medal.

Baba added they have been together in several SAR missions in disaster-hit areas in different parts of the country.