Published: January 20, 2025 | Updated: December 8, 2025
He may take frequent naps on the job, but no one has the heart to complain. Meet Popoy, the rescued stray dog with epilepsy who has become the internet’s favorite “GCash-ier” at Tikya Garden Bistro in Nueva Ecija, Philippines.
From Scared Stray to Viral Superstar
In May 2024, bistro owner Jenny Ann Chu found a terrified, skin-and-bones stray hiding under a tricycle outside the restaurant. After waiting weeks with no owner coming forward, Jenny and her husband officially adopted him and named him Popoy (after the famous character from the Filipino movie One More Chance).
A veterinary check-up revealed that Popoy suffers from epilepsy. Thanks to love, proper care and medication, he has outgrown most seizures, but he still tires easily — which explains his legendary on-duty naps.
How Popoy Became the Official Cashier
Popoy was always super friendly with customers, especially those who brought their own dogs. The owners noticed how much joy he brought everyone, so they came up with a brilliant idea:
“Let’s put the restaurant’s GCash QR code on him! He’s such an extrovert, people will love it.”
— Jenny Ann Chu, owner of Tikya Garden Bistro
Now Popoy wears a custom necklace with the bistro’s GCash QR code. Customers scan it to pay and, as a bonus, get to pet the happiest cashier in the Philippines.
The Internet Fell in Love Instantly
When the bistro posted about their new “GCash-ier” in January 2025, the post exploded:
- Over 113,000 reactions
- 38,000+ shares
- Thousands of comments saying “Employee of the Year!”
Netizens also shared helpful advice: no flash photography (can trigger seizures) and never feed him bones.
A Reminder That Every Dog Deserves a Second Chance
Popoy’s story proves that with patience, love, and a little creativity, even dogs with medical conditions can live their best lives — and even get promoted to management!
If you’re ever in Nueva Ecija, drop by Tikya Garden Bistro, scan Popoy’s QR code, and tell him we said hi.
