Three highly trained K9 dogs—Venom, Paul, and Bella—became instrumental in finding the bodies of Ely and Thelma Ubatay, the couple buried under the landslide in Sitio Kipolot, Barangay Palacapao, Quezon, Bukidnon.
For four days, rescuers struggled against unstable terrain, thick mud, and unpredictable weather while searching for the missing couple.
But hope was revived when the K9 units from the 10th Infantry Division picked up a strong scent, guiding search teams closer to the exact location.
Their discovery on October 23, 2025, at around 9:30 a.m., finally brought an end to the family’s agony and gave them long-awaited closure.
According to rescuers, the dogs’ precision and determination became the key turning point in the mission. Despite exhaustion and the difficult environment, Venom, Paul, and Bella continued tracking without pause, showing unmatched loyalty and skill. T
heir handlers also received praise for their teamwork, patience, and dedication throughout the exhausting search operation.
Local officials expressed deep appreciation to the K9 units, calling them the unsung heroes who made the mission a success. “Their instincts and hard work gave direction when hope was fading,” said one responder, emphasizing the crucial role the dogs played in the recovery.
Authorities also extended gratitude to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Bukidnon Provincial Police Office, and all volunteer responders.
The successful retrieval of the Ubatay couple’s remains stands as a reminder of how courage, teamwork, and the dedication of both humans and animals can bring light even in tragedy.
