Filipinos pay tribute to viral 'secu-kitty' guard Conan
MANILA, Philippines — Tributes poured in multitudes following news that Conan the "security guard cat" passed away aged just three years old.
Conan went viral three years ago when the then-six-month-old kitten "joined the security team" of a business center in Mandaluyong after a previous cat passed away.
Pictures of Conan in a black-and-yellow vest circulated, with many security guards saying they feel motivated to work their long shifts with the cat around.
The dedicated Facebook page for the cats adopted by the business announced last June 2 that Conan had died, possibly from a wound on his front left leg.
"Fly high our Meowguard, our K10, our beloved Conan," the account said, with many expressing their condolences.
The Facebook page livestreamed a memorial service for the beloved feline, which was attended by many who were fond of the cat.
"Whether he was patrolling the halls wearing one of his cute outfits, greeting visitors, demanding treats, chasing toys or bugs, or simply (mostly) napping on duty, Conan had a way of making every day a little brighter. He was not a mascot, but a family to everyone in the building."
Conan was described as "a source of comfort after a difficult day, a reason to smile during a busy shift, and a friendly orange face everyone looked forward to seeing."
The cat left behind fellow adopted felines like Kobe, Boss Pedro, Ginger, Bobby, Niel and Purrito, all of whom helped make the business center feel alive.
"The security posts, walkways, and random resting places will carry his memory, and his absence will be felt not only by the people who loved him, but also by the furry friends who spent their days by his side," the office said, praising Conan for following in his predecessor Ming-ming's footsteps.
The business center hoped that Conan would be welcomed in the afterlife by Ming-ming and other adopted animals Turmeric, Tisoy and Dodong following "the end of his shift, ready to welcome him home."
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