By: Hannah Dela Torre, Ayala Land
Home isn’t just a place—it’s the love we pour into it. For Tin Enriquez-Yabao, an “ALIzen” of 25 years, home blossomed not only for her family, but also for the dogs who changed her life in the most unexpected ways.
It began with Siomai, a calm and loving black Labrador (Lab) who was more than a pet, she was Tin’s heart. Losing her after 12 joyful years left a hole that no dog could seem to fill. Until Sachi came along.
Sachi, another black Lab, was the complete opposite of Siomai—spirited, naughty, and full of boundless energy. She challenged Tin to grow as a fur mom. They sought training, adjusted routines, and found joy in every weekend walk at Alabang Town Center, where Sachi became a beloved figure. Her vibrant personality lit up their lives and taught Tin acceptance, patience, resilience, and unconditional love.
But Tin’s journey didn’t stop there.
In a quiet corner of her father’s farm, Tin found a terrified stray dog living in a shelter he built from branches and dried leaves. Traumatized and afraid of people, he resisted rescue. But Tin never gave up. With patience and love, she slowly earned his trust and named him Booster. Adopting him opened a deeper part of her heart, teaching her that true compassion means showing up even when it’s hard. It wasn’t just about caring anymore—it was about healing. She gave him not just shelter, but safety and love he had never known. And with Sachi by his side, he finally began to thrive.
In return, Sachi and Booster became Tin’s own source of strength. On hard days, they were her comfort. Her home wasn’t just filled with laughter—it was filled with purpose.
As she took care of her pets, Tin’s compassion continued to grow. When two stray dogs in her village were at risk of being taken by the barangay, she stepped in without hesitation. While others saw a threat, Tin saw lives worth saving. She brought them to the vet for vaccinations, built them a safe shelter, and inspired her neighbors to help care for them.
It wasn’t easy, caring for them meant making more time, effort, and expenses, but for Tin, their right to a safe, loving space mattered more. Once wild and untouchable, the stray dogs slowly became gentle, cared-for companions—proof that with love and patience, even the lost can find a place to thrive. Through Tin’s quiet courage and selfless heart, she helped these strays not just survive —she gave them a second chance to truly belong.
Tin’s story is a reminder that thriving doesn’t always mean having more—it often means experiencing an outpouring of love and gratitude that allows you to give back and do more. Through her love and selfless care, she created a sanctuary, not just for her dogs, but for herself and her community.
In every bark, tail wag, and quiet moment of trust, Tin and her fur babies found something precious: a home where everyone—rescued or not—can truly thrive.
