Mandaue City council recognizes hero furmom

Local

BEFORE formal motions and resolutions filled the agenda, two small paws quietly claimed attention inside the session hall.

Ei Mei Lee Maningo of Barangay Guizo, Madaue City was formally recognized by the city council for her bravery in risking her life to save her two Pomeranian dogs during a fire that struck a commercial building last week.

Her brave act was caught in a video and was widely shared on social media, and received praises from the netizens.

Her pets, Miyah, 3, and Kayen, 2, were with her during the session on Monday, Dec. 15, sitting beside their owner as the council awarded her a plaque of recognition.

During the council session, Island Rescue Organization extended additional recognition by giving dog food, treats, and other gifts to Maningo and her pets.

The presence of the dogs during the awarding ceremony drew warm reactions from officials and attendees, reinforcing the heartfelt nature of Maningo’s act of bravery and devotion.

City Councilor Jennifer Del Mar, author of the resolution, emphasized that Maningo’s actions reflected genuine courage, quick thinking, and devotion.

She said the council was inspired by Maningo’s willingness to place the safety of her pets above her own during the emergency.

Mayor Thadeo “Jonkie” Ouano also commended Maningo, highlighting the courage and love she showed for her pets.

“In the face of fire and fear, love chose to stay. Saludo mi nimo, Ei Mei Lee Maningo, sa imong presence of mind, courage, ug walay duhaduha nga gugma sa imong furbabies nga si Miyah ug Kayen," Ouano said.

"Ang imong maayong buhat gipasidunggan sab sa atong City Council pinaagi sa resolution ni Kons. Jen del Mar. Kini usa ka pahinumdom nga sa kalisod, gugma ang atong kusog ug kaisog," he added.

The incident occurred on the morning of Dec. 10 at a styrofoam warehouse inside a three-storey commercial building in Sitio Santo Niño, Barangay Guizo.

Maningo, a stay-in employee at the facility, was on the third floor when she heard a loud noise followed by thick black smoke.

She immediately called for help, realizing the building was on fire.

A video of the rescue went viral on social media, showing Maningo carefully throwing her two Pomeranians to bystanders waiting below, ensuring their safety.

Both dogs were caught without injury. Firefighters later assisted Maningo in descending from the burning building.

She sustained only minor injuries despite the hazardous situation.(MyTVCebu)