PETA calls for Manila Zoo's closure anew

An animal rights advocate on Thursday renewed its appeal to the government to close down the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, or more commonly known as Manila Zoo. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said the animals kept in Asia’s oldest zoo “are denied everything that is natural and important to them." “They are housed in cages that don’t come close to the jungles, deserts, and forests that are their natural homes. They have no choice in their diets, mates, or living companions," PETA said in a statement. On Thursday, a day after the sorry condition of the Manila Zoo became abuzz on Twitter, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said it is urging concerned citizens to help restore the 5.5-hectare zoo. He also said the Bureau of Animal Industry is already taking steps to improve the living condition of the animals. “They made a plan of action to uphold the welfare of the animals that should be led by zoo officials," Lacierda said, noting that animals in the Philippines are protected under the Animal Welfare Act of 1998. He said it is noteworthy that concerned citizens have expressed the willingness to help the Manila Zoo improve its facilities and raise its standards. “We are encouraged by this demonstration of public spirit on the part of our fellow citizens. It is a positive sign that the citizenry wants to be part of the solution and not just point out a problem," Lacierda said. Those who wish to help in raising funds to restore the Manila Zoo may call telephone numbers (02) 468-9498 and (02) 383-6862, according to the Palace.

PETA’s campaign For years, PETA has been campaigning for the closure of the zoo due to the “poor conditions" of animals. It said the physical and mental frustrations of animal’s captivity often lead to abnormal, neurotic, and even self-destructive behaviors. “This mental illness is marked by symptoms such as pacing, neck-twisting, head-bobbing, bar-biting, and other repetitive behaviors," the group said. According to PETA, most people are appalled when they learn that the elephant Mali, an attraction at the zoo, was only three years old when torn from her home and family and shipped to the zoo. “In the wild, Mali would browse and graze in home ranges of between 25,000 and 60,000 hectares… Mali has been in a barren and decrepit cement enclosure in the Manila Zoo for over 30 years," it said. — KBK, GMA News