'' GHOST " the Hero Dog: Lending a Helping Paw After the Cebu Earthquake

 '' GHOST '' the Hero Dog: Lending a Helping Paw After the Cebu Earthquake

                The Metro Manila Dog Association K-9 Corps arrives at Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown.

On the evening of September 30, 2025, Cebu was shaken by a powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake. The disaster claimed lives, left families without homes, and caused billions in damage. But in the midst of tragedy, heroes rose—among them, a very special dog named Ghost.

Ghost, a German Shepherd with the MMDA K-9 Corps, was deployed to Bogo City to help in the search and rescue operations. Alongside her handler, Ms. Sheryl Impacis, Ghost searched tirelessly through the rubble, bringing hope to those still holding on.

MMDA K9 Ghost with handler Sheryl Palcis

This wasn’t Ghost’s first mission—she’s served in Batangas, Tagaytay, and now Cebu. Her courage, loyalty, and training have made her a quiet but powerful symbol of hope.

Before heading to Bogo, Ghost and her team stayed briefly at Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, a pet-friendly hotel that welcomed them with open arms. “It was a small way for us to help,” said Josef Chiongbian, the hotel’s General Manager, noting how they made an exception for the K-9 Corps during this critical time.

The Metro Manila Dog Association K9 Corps John Russell Navarette, Angelo James Cuaton, and Sheryl Palcis with K9 Ghost at Bogo City for the search and rescue operations.

Since 2016, the MMDA K-9 Corps has trained hundreds of dogs like Ghost to respond in emergencies. Their work is often unseen, but always vital.

As Cebu begins to heal, stories like Ghost’s remind us that bravery isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it walks on four paws, with a wagging tail and a mission to save lives.