In a world where apathy and nonchalance dictate our opinions and worldviews, this Filipino podcast reminds us that caring is still, and always will be, cool.
For years, Biyaya Animal Care (Biyaya for short) has done wonders for the welfare of our furry friends nationwide. Their meaningful fundraising events, advocacy talks, and ongoing projects for pets and stray animals have encouraged numerous communities to use their voices and platforms for a good cause, regardless of their status or following.
Photo: Biyaya Animal Care Group/YouTube
In 2023, Biyaya started highlighting these acts of kindness more online through conversations led by none other than Rina Ortiz, the social enterprise’s chief executive officer (CEO) and co-founder. Her podcast, originally called Barks n’ Burps, has covered every topic under the sun regarding responsible pet ownership, adoption, and rescues, in relation to each special guest’s everyday life.
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Now titled The Rina Ortiz Podcast, this passion project has become one of Biyaya’s most successful pursuits to date. Over the past three years, Rina has had heart-to-heart talks with various advocates, leaders, and storytellers who’ve inspired listeners to pay more attention to what’s going on in the world and take action towards a better future.
If you haven’t added The Rina Ortiz Podcast to your list of go-to local podcasts yet, consider this your sign to do so. Here’s what you can expect from every episode and its involvement in Biyaya’s long-term goals:
Compassion Changes Lives
Biyaya has always believed in the power of quality care—not just for animals, but for the fur parents and community members who nurture them. Rina has approached every episode of her podcast with this exact kindness, encouraging listeners to do the same and keep their hearts open to her interviewees’ diverse experiences.
These insightful conversations help us learn how compassion is rooted in almost everything we go through. Though Rina’s podcast primarily focuses on the distinct bonds between humans and animals, these discussions can also cover different philosophies on life and love in all forms from “Filipinos who lead with heart.”
That’s the magic of The Rina Ortiz Podcast. It never limits itself to a single talking point. Instead, Rina and her special guests ensure a fulfilling learning experience on culture and positive social change, with countless words of wisdom we can resonate with.
Notable Guests With Hearts of Gold
Rina’s podcast has featured a wide variety of remarkable public figures who’ve helped people find their purpose in their respective fields. Some of these prominent interviewees include:
- Aya Fernandez, who shared her core memories as an actress, environmental advocate, entrepreneur, and role model for young women,
- Chel Diokno, who talked to Rina about social justice and humanitarian action,
- Carla Abellana, who led a thoughtful conversation on vulnerability and weakness,
- Kim Atienza, who brought up helpful lessons on spirituality, and
- Vince Golangco, who recounted his unforgettable journey so far as a fur parent, mental health advocate, and the founder and CEO of WhenInManila.com.
The latest episode of The Rina Ortiz Podcast premiered on March 13, 2026. It spotlights Jayson Catubay, a K9 handler for the Philippine Marines, and Alakdan, his retired service dog and lifelong companion.
As Rina’s online show reaches a wider audience, we can’t wait to see more guests from various industries team up with Biyaya to share their wisdom, advocate for improved animal care, and collaborate on solutions.
More of Biyaya’s Fruitful Endeavors
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From animal welfare to large-scale social change, Biyaya’s efforts have consistently helped Filipinos work towards the futures they envision for themselves and their loved ones. Besides The Rina Ortiz Podcast, the social enterprise has dabbled in other collaborative environments for Filipinos (and their fur babies) to share their stories.
If you want to make a difference with Rina and the Biyaya team, here’s how you can support and get in touch with them:
- Visit or donate to the Biyaya Animal Sanctuary in Cavite, a haven for rescued animals that also hosts adoption programs,
- Shop for your fur babies’ essentials at Biyaya’s online Pawshoppe,
- Volunteer at Biyaya’s rescue operations and veterinary initiatives,
- Partner with the Biyaya Animal Sanctuary for fundraising programs and brand collaborations, and
- Follow Biyaya on social media for more updates on their future milestones and animal welfare projects.
Who knows, your purposeful contributions might even help you become Rina’s next guest on her podcast.
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What do you think of Rina Ortiz’s podcast with Biyaya Animal Care? Let us know in the comments below!
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