Opened in 1977, Rock N’ Rail Horse Ranch has spent decades teaching riders, some even invited to compete internationally.

After damage from Typhoon Mawar, Owner Charlene Tenorio and her volunteers have been working hard to rebuild but a recent wave of thefts has made that even harder.

“I’ve never had this happen before,” said Tenorio.

It started with small items like gasoline cans but three weeks ago, trespassers struck again, stealing the lawn mower’s tires, stripping its wiring, taking its batteries, and breaking into the tack room.

And worse, the thefts have put the horses at risk.

One volunteer arrived to feed the horses, only to find one, Star, with a saddle strapped to her back, a bridle hanging from her neck.

Someone had tried to take her.

“It’s dangerous for people to come in and not know the horses,” said Tenorio. “You can accidentally get kicked by a horse or bitten.”

A path cut through the jungle behind the ranch led to another disturbing discovery: Stolen equipment stashed, waiting to be taken.

Tenorio reported each incident to police, but said the response has been disappointing.

“No, all they have said is, ‘Maybe you should have a camera,’ and that’s about it,” said Tenorio.

Police did, however, question suspected neighbors.

“And so, he went there and he talked to the neighbor. He said if they find any more stuff of mine over there at their property, they’ll come and look at them specifically,” she added.

To protect the ranch, Tenorio has installed solar lights and is now adding security cameras.

But the financial burden is growing. On top of repairs and paying for the horses’ feed, a new lawn mower adds to the strain.

“I can only take so much and it’s very depressing. So, I’d like it to stop,” said Tenorio.

Still, she continues to welcome the community, offering riding lessons and even photo sessions with the horses.

If you’d like to volunteer or donate to the ranch, you can reach them on Facebook or their website.

Despite the challenges, the team at the Rock N’ Rail Horse Ranch remains committed to caring for their horses and serving the community.