The handler of the security dog caught on viral video maltreating the animal has been terminated.

Search and Secure Canine Training and Services International Inc. (SAS K9) announced on social media that the K9 handler involved in the September 3, 2025 incident has been terminated “effective immediately, due to gross negligence and violation of our animal welfare protocols” after conducting an investigation.

The agency also apologized for the incident involving the security dog, Bingo.

“We sincerely apologize for the recent inconvenience and frustration the animal advocates have experienced due to the mishandling of the dog by the Security Canine Handler that went viral on Facebook on September 3, 2025. We understand how this incident may have caused distress, and we deeply regret it,” it said.

“We remain committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical K9 handling and assure the public and our partners that we have taken firm and appropriate action,” it added.

SAS K9 added that the maltreatment of Bingo was “unacceptable” and that it is taking the matter seriously.

It said it will implement additional retraining of its handlers and a review of its internal training processes to prevent a repeat of the incident.

“This incident does not reflect our standards, and we are dedicated to ensuring it does not happen again,” it said.

Nicole Andrea, the person who took and uploaded the video, told GMA News Online that the incident took place inside the Meralco compound in Ortigas, Pasig City.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWs) also said it will file charges against the K9 handler.

In a statement, PAWS said the handler was seen “forcefully and violently” mistreating Bingo the canine when he allegedly engaged in an “aggressive attempt to retrieve a ball from the dog’s mouth.”

“PAWS is deeply outraged and condemns these repeated acts of violence and neglect toward K9s. There is no job, task, or excuse that ever justifies cruelty or violence in any workplace, and certainly not in the treatment of animals,” it said.

“Humane, science-based training methods exist. The use of force, fear, violence, or threats that cause harm or instill trauma has no place in animal training,” it added.

In a separate statement, Meralco confirmed the incident took place within the company premises.

“We are deeply disturbed by what we’ve seen and are treating this matter with utmost seriousness,” the company said.

“We are reviewing all related practices to make sure every animal in our operation is treated with respect, dignity, and kindness,”