Zamboanga’s Memorial Marker for Kabang the ‘Hero Dog’ Is Currently in the Works

While Kabang has passed away, her memory lives on.

A memorial marker for the honourable canine is in the works, according to the Kabang The Hero Dog Facebook page. The memorial in Zamboanga City will serve as Kabang’s final resting place, featuring a solid aluminium statue by prolific Davao-based artist Kublai Millan. The page also shared photos of the final architectural plans. 

“The modern pedestal bearing the statue pays homage to the ‘humility’ of aspins in our country,” Kabang The Hero Dog wrote in a Facebook post. “The simplistic shape and form reflect their modest but elegant nature and at the same time, exhibits stability as they are the most common dog breed that Filipinos can rely on.”

“The split in the center displays contemporary elements of the vinta sail that evokes Zamboanga, where Kabang is from. It also represents the pride that the heroism of Kabang brought to the hearts of the Filipinos, especially the Zamboangueños.”

Designed by Zamboangueño architect Keith San Antonio, the memorial marker will be the first hero dog memorial in the Philippines. It aims to celebrate the heroism and significance of the “asong Pinoy” or aspin.

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Who is Kabang the Hero Dog?

Kabang first made headlines in 2011, after she courageously saved the lives of her owner’s daughter and niece. She lost her snout and upper jaw as she jumped into the path of the motorcycle that was about to hit the children.

Since this incident, Kabang earned global acclaim. Supporters from around the world joined hands to donate funds to fully cover her treatment costs in the US. In 2013, Kabang was hailed the “ambassador of dog will.”

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Kabang passed away in her sleep on 17 May 2021. On his Facebook page, Dr Anton Lim shared that he “found her lying motionless near her bed.” The hero dog’s veterinarian proceeded to honour Kabang, thanking her for the eight “years of unconditional love, loyalty and joy” she brought to the family. 

“Thank you for the life lessons and the inspiration you gave to the world. We will miss you. Hope to see you again. Rest in peace Kabang,” Lim continued.

Zamboangueños are rested in knowing that they can continue to pay homage to their hero dog. The Kabang The Hero Dog Facebook page continues to accept donations for the Kabang Legacy Fund on GoFundMe.

All images credited to Kabang The Hero Dog | Official Facebook Page