From suits to the Barong Tagalog, this adorable canine from Camalig, Albay is the darling of the camera. Meet Courage the Golden Retriever, also known as “Boiboi” by his fur parent Marie Mejes.
HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
According to Marie, Boiboi started modeling in 2022, on his second birthday. “He slayed his photoshoot wearing a barong made from pinukpok or abaca silk. Pinukpok fiber is made by manually pounding abaca strands, which are then hand-woven into fabric.”
But Marie could already see Courage’s modeling potential even when he was still a Puppy. She saw the excitement in his eyes whenever he got dressed. “Whenever we go out, we put on his favorite shirt and underwear,” Marie states.
IT TAKES COURAGE
Courage is a sociable Dog, but if he feels scared or overwhelmed, especially in public places, he hides under tables or behind Marie’s legs, which she describes as his “safe zone.”
However, his confidence is boosted whenever he dresses up, because that’s when he knows it’s “vroom-vroom” or lakwatsa time.
“When he sees his outfit, he knows we will go out. He’ll excitedly climb up on his chair and wait to put on his clothes. Courage loves outdoor activities, like road trips, hiking, malling, [going to] church, and swimming! He’s an excellent swimmer; he can swim just about anywhere, but sometimes it seems like he can be an even better swimmer than us. He’d go nuts when he [sees] water, and he’s attracted to it, and sometimes [it’s] impossible to stop him from jumping [into the water].”
NEVER GOING OUT OF STYLE
While Courage can rock any outfit, Marie thinks an elegant style suits him well. In most of his photos, he is wearing a suit-and-tie, a dress shirt, or the occasional Barong Tagalog. On a photo shoot during his third birthday in April, he wore a navy blue tuxedo.
“With his flamboyant attitude, I think he can steal every girl in town,” Marie adds.
HOPE DURING DIRE TIMES
Marie met Courage at the height of the pandemic lockdowns. For her and her family, he provided much- needed warmth and comfort.
The family also learned a valuable lesson from spending time with the canine. “[H]e taught us the silver lining during the pandemic: to slow down, connect, and enjoy the present.”
MOST MEMORABLE SHOOT
Courage has had many shoots since he started dressing up, but according to Marie, his third birthday celebration was the most memorable one.
“Everyone from the family was there: lolas, lolos, titas, and friends. It’s always nice to share beautiful memories with beautiful people.”
One of Courage’s most memorable birthdays was his third, which he celebrated with his family. (Courage the Golden | Facebook)
