Highlights from the Inaugural Manila Dog Show 2023
The Manila Dog Show 2023 sparkled with dog sophistication and charm during its kickoff at the Manila Hotel Tent City on August 12-13, 2023.
In celebration of canine-human companionship, the show brought together different dogs, canine enthusiasts, breed experts, and brand partners in one place.
This is the first of what would be a yearly Manila Dog Show organized by the Philippine Pomeranian Club, Inc. in collaboration with the Manila Bulletin and Animal Scene. It was sponsored by Vista Mall, All Home, and PetBuddy with the support of Ayala Land Premier, Pet Express, and Malayan Insurance.
The prestigious Manila Hotel, official food and venue partner, catered for the grand gathering, which observed the rules and regulations of the Philippine Canine Club, Inc.
Judges at the Manila Dog Show 2023: Zhi Chen (CHN), Maribel Sy (PHL), Chaiwat Tangkaravakun (THA), Sean Carroll (IRL), Sidney Bascon (PHL), Dr. Raymundo Lo (PHL); Inset: Aaron Go (PHL), and Alfonso Chito Ilagan (PHL)
WORLD-CLASS CANINE COMPETITION
The annual dog show, which took place at the Tent City of the Manila Hotel, left a trail of wagging tails and memories.
The Manila Dog Show 2023 hosted the 21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th All Breed Championship Dog Shows. A separate special show was set up for Pomeranian dog companions — the 64th, 65th, 66th, 67th, 68th, 69th, 70th, and 71st Pomeranian Specialty Shows. Eight shows were held under this segment, where exhibitors showcased their pom’s natural sophistication.
Exhibitors streamed in starting at 6:30 a.m. to get ready for the first competition day. The two-day show began at 8 a.m. with an invocation followed by the national anthems of the Philippines, Ireland, China, and Thailand.
Expert judges from different countries came to the gathering and were introduced before the competition commenced. This year’s impressive lineup of judges included Irish Kennel Club All Breeds judge Sean Carroll, China Kennel Union licensed judge Zhi (Andy) Chen, Shih Tzu breeder Maribel Sy, long-time dog fancier and Pekingese breeder Dr. Raymundo Lo, Thai Pomeranian Club President Chaivat Tangkaravakun, Former Boxer breeder and Philippine Canine Club, Inc. Director and Treasurer Alfonso Ilagan, Siberian Husky breeder Sidney Bascon, and Beagle, Corgi, and Miniature Pinscher breeder Aaaron Go.
Two rings at the Tent City were set up as a comfortable arena for the judges and dog participants, providing enough space for up to 242 dog competitors who flaunted their beauty. Among those who competed were Welsh Corgis (Pembroke), Pinschers, Schnauzers, Terriers, Spitz and primitive types, Scent Hounds, Retrievers-Flushing Dogs, and Companion and Toy dogs.
DOGS IN ACTION
STRUTTING THEIR STUFF
OUTSTANDING ENTRIES
Amidst a symphony of barks and cheers, the judges unveiled the champions. Here’s a closer look at the remarkable winners who stole the spotlight.
In the climactic moment of the event, Phil HOF/Tha Ch Space Pome Start-Up Rookie (Kor) (Pomeranian), owned by Marvin Gonzales and Leomar A Bilog, claimed the Best in Show 1 award and three Best in Specialty Show plums.
Ultimately, Kimono JP Space Battleship Yamato 2 (Jpn) (Pomeranian), owned and bred by Yasuo Nakajima, bagged the Philippine championship title along with the Best in Show 1 award and four Best in Specialty Show wins.
Beaming with elegance and charisma, Kimono JP Space Battleship Yamato 2 stood out in the competition and became the big winner of the first Manila Dog Show in the Philippines.
Among the Best in Show winners is Sharm De Lyuks (Rus) (Shit-Tzu), Best in Show 1, 2, and 3 winner, owned by Sodhi Vishal Singh.
Also among the winners is Phil Gr/Kor Ch Kind Martin of Hangaram (Kor) [Welsh Corgi (Pembroke)], Best in Show 1 winner, owned by Ronny C. Laborada.
MORE WINNERS
The spotlight was also shared by several other winners, posing with their exhibitors and the judges.
These fantastic canines and their dedicated guardians are a reminder of the uniqueness of different dogs whose talent will shine in every ring they compete in.
TREATS AROUND THE RING
The event was framed by an array of booths beyond the main arena.
Attendees saw how the show dogs were groomed and trimmed at the open exhibitors’ holding area. Sponsor booths adorned with vibrant banners showcased an assortment of treats, accessories, and services that promised to pamper four-legged attendees.
There were rows of sponsor booths beside the main entrance of Tent City. The PetBuddy booth offered natural dog treats, grooming services, and pet accessories; the Malayan Insurance booth addressed pet insurance inquiries by event-goers; and the HONOR booth displayed and sold units to the attendees.
The Manila Hotel booth, on the other hand, provided food and beverages for the guests. VitaBloom, Ayala Land Premier, Manila Bulletin, and Animal Scene also offered their products and services.
The Bureau of Animal Industry visited on the first day of the competition to help those who wanted to apply for an export permit.
The booths added a layer of enrichment, turning the event into an immersive experience.
PARTICIPATING EXHIBITORS
A PEEK BEHIND THE CURTAIN
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of organizers brought their expertise to the table. Their shared passion for dogs and commitment to creating a memorable experience for all involved made the Manila Dog Show a memorable experience.
As the curtains close on a successful inaugural competition, let’s raise our animal companion’s paw to the extraordinary individuals who have poured their hearts and souls into making this event a howling success — pun intended. Their hard work highlighted the special place that furry friends hold in the lives of many.
More than just a competition, the show was a celebration of the love and joy that dogs bring to people’s lives.
Stay tuned for more updates about the Manila Dog Show via their Facebook page and Instagram page.
DELIBERATIONS
PHOTOS BY JEFFREY LIM
