‘We don’t intend to harm the dog’: GSO apologizes for alleged animal abuse
CAMPUS — General Services Office (GSO) Director Frederick Godinez apologizes for alleged animal abuse after images of campus security personnel placing a dog in a sack surfaced online.
On October 28, days after being marked safe from Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the dog known to students as “Bailey”—also referred to as “Pogi” or “Milo”—was photographed being caught by security and put into a sack, sparking concern among students.
Godinez explained that he ordered the dog’s capture as a precautionary measure, saying, “Baka makakagat,” after receiving reports that it was seen roaming inside Café Museo.
He further disclosed that Vice President for Administrative Services (VPAS) Nathaniel Golla also advised caution in handling the situation: “Ayusin ang paghuli… or pagtaboy baka ma-video-han kayo,” as quoted by the GSO Director.
Despite this, photos taken showing the dog in a sack circulated online, leading to accusations of mistreatment. The dog was later confirmed to be secure, caged, and well-fed along with K9 units under the care of the Security Office, following the directives from President Br. Sockie dela Rosa VI FSC and other campus officials overseeing the dog’s welfare.
“We admit na… mali ’yong paraan ng paghuli… and I take responsibility for that. I was also informed by the Vice President na baka p’wedeng turuan [ang security personnel] how to catch the animals na hindi siya threatening on their part,” he said.
According to GSO officials, they have been tracing Bailey’s campus whereabouts since last year, and its frequent wandering in the University might suggest that it enjoys the environment.
Moreover, he emphasized that the University’s primary concern is student safety and security while ensuring that the dog is handled humanely.
“We don’t have any intention to harm the dog. What we want only is to capture the dog, secure the dog, para hindi siya kakalat sa campus… All we want to do is secure and be safe ’yong mga estudyante,” Godinez stated in response to the backlash.
The University is now considering the next steps for Bailey, including locating his owner or arranging an adoption if no owner is found. Should adoption efforts be unsuccessful, surrendering Bailey to the city government may be considered.
With regards to handling situations like this, GSO’s future plans involve training security personnel in animal handling after a discussion with Associate Director for Safety and Health Br. Fernando “Dan” Sanding FSC.
Photo slider by Cedric Labajo
