K9 Bingo is Safe
K9 Bingo is now safe and secure after a viral video showed his handler physically abusing him near the Meralco office in Pasig. Search and Secure Canine Training and Services International (SAS K9) confirmed that Bingo is in a safe environment and is being closely monitored to ensure his recovery.
The incident happened on September 3, 2025, when netizen Nicole Andrea saw a man behind a white van interacting with a K9 dog. At first, she thought they were playing, but she soon realized the handler was hurting the dog. Shocked, Nicole recorded the incident and immediately reported it to Meralco security.
Nicole later posted the video on Facebook and TikTok, where it quickly went viral. Viewers were outraged, especially since K9 dogs are known for their service and loyalty. Many demanded accountability, saying violence is never acceptable, even if the handler was just trying to get the dog to release a ball.
SAS K9 conducted an internal investigation and confirmed that the handler’s actions were gross negligence and a violation of animal welfare protocols. They announced that the handler had been fired immediately. SAS K9 also apologized to the public and promised to retrain staff and improve procedures to prevent similar incidents.
Meralco CATropa assured the public that they are working with authorities to seek justice for Bingo and to protect other K9 dogs. The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) also pledged support for the case and emphasized the importance of stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws.
Previously, a Belgian Malinois working with the Philippine National Police’s Regional Explosive and Canine Unit–NCR sparked public concern after a photo of the K9 named Kobe went viral. The photo, taken during an explosive detection operation in Manila, showed Kobe looking noticeably thin, with his ribs clearly visible. This prompted netizens to question whether he was receiving proper care and sparked discussions about the treatment of working animals, particularly those serving in law enforcement.