From Lifelong Passion to Pioneering Impact: Meet Biyaya Animal Care’s CEO & Co-Founder, Rina Ortiz

From the quiet innocence of a five-year-old girl learning compassion from her grandfather, to leading a pioneering social enterprise, Ms. Rina Ortiz’s journey with animals is one of unwavering dedication. It began simply, yet profoundly. “When I was five years old, my lolo brought me to a place in his village where he lived and we picked up a dog,” Ortiz shared in an interview with Vogue Philippines, recalling her very first rescue, an initiation that would shape a lifetime.

While life’s responsibilities called for a professional path, Rina’s heart never truly strayed from her calling. She continued her rescue efforts on a smaller scale, always nurturing that innate desire to protect the vulnerable. It was during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period of deep reflection, that her life’s true purpose became undeniable.

The Biyaya Way: A Holistic Approach to Compassion for All

This pivotal moment led to the establishment of Biyaya Animal Care Group, a pioneering mission-driven social enterprise for companion animals in the Philippines. Biyaya Animal Care Group isn’t just a rescue organization; it’s a comprehensive ecosystem built on the conviction that every animal, whether found on the streets or cherished at home, deserves the same love, care, and chance at life.

• Biyaya Animal Care: Providing essential veterinary services in Mandala, Rockwell, and Katarungan. Biyaya believes that by serving owned animals, it also strengthens the capacity to reach those who need love and care the most.

• Pawshoppe by Biyaya: A dedicated pet supply store where every purchase directly contributes to Biyaya’s greater mission.
• Biyaya Pet Essentials: Soon to be launched brand of pet shampoo and cologne designed to further support animal well-being.

The remarkable commitment at the heart of Biyaya Animal Care Group is that 100% of the proceeds directly fund the life-saving work of Biyaya Animal Sanctuary.

More Than Rescues: Cultivating Kindness and Profound Impact

For Ms. Ortiz, the impact of Biyaya extends far beyond the animals themselves. She believes that animals are powerful teachers of humanity, capable of inspiring profound personal growth. “Animals can educate you and give you the courage to be kind, because animals never betray,” she shared with Vogue Philippines.

Ms. Rina Ortiz is more than a rescuer; she is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that a lifelong passion, combined with strategic compassionate vision, can create a powerful force for good for all animals.