Police Deploy Search Dogs in Typhoon-Hit Cebu Barangays
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, has mobilized search and rescue dogs from the Regional Explosive Ordinance Disposal-K9 Unit 7 to assist in recovery operations in Barangay Bacayan, Cebu City. The deployment occurred on November 13, 2025, as part of the ongoing response to Typhoon Tino's devastating impact on the region.
Ground Assessment and Search Operations
General Maranan personally inspected Sityo Tamiao 3 in Barangay Tamiao, Compostela, Cebu, and Bacayan in Cebu City to supervise search, retrieval, and clearing operations. The police official believes the foul odor reported by residents originates from decomposing human or animal remains that drowned and were swept away by floodwaters during the typhoon.
The K9 units specialize in detecting explosives but are now being utilized to locate potential casualties buried under debris. Their heightened sense of smell makes them particularly effective in identifying locations where remains might be trapped under collapsed structures or mud deposits.
Comprehensive Clearing Operations Underway
General Maranan has directed personnel to thoroughly clean debris and ensure no explosive materials or structural hazards remain in Bacayan, particularly in Villa del Rio 1. This forms part of PRO-7's proactive typhoon response strategy to restore safety and normalcy to affected communities.
The police regional chief emphasized that the operations will continue until all potential hazards are cleared and any missing persons are accounted for. The coordinated efforts between different units demonstrate the comprehensive approach being taken to address both immediate and secondary effects of the natural disaster.
