The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has retired nine Narcotic Detection Dogs (NDDs) or K9s from active service and opened them for adoption as they transition to life outside operational duty.
The retired K9s include five Belgian Malinois, three Jack Russell Terriers, and one Labrador, with an average age of 12 years. They served in various anti-illegal drug operations nationwide, including jail inspections, search and seizure missions, interdiction operations, and checkpoint duties at airports, seaports, and transport terminals.
“These K9s have been loyal partners in our mission against illegal drugs. Their courage, discipline, and dedication have saved countless lives and supported countless successful operations,” said PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez.
He said the retirement program ensures the dogs’ continued welfare and dignity after years of service. “We owe these dogs more than gratitude. We owe them a safe, peaceful, and loving forever home where they can enjoy their remaining years in comfort,” he added.
PDEA said its K9 facility is not suited for aging working dogs, prompting the agency to facilitate adoption into stable and caring homes.
Interested adopters may submit applications via email at pdeak9adoption@gmail.com or in person at the PDEA K9 Unit Facility in Sitio Lambakin, Barangay Sto. Cristo, City of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.
Applicants will undergo screening, interviews, and matching before turnover. PDEA said post-adoption monitoring will be conducted to ensure the dogs’ continued welfare.
“Our responsibility does not end at turnover. We will continue to ensure that our hero dogs are safe, healthy, and well cared for in their new homes,” Nerez said.