Pedring, Quiel, Ramon newest attractions at Manila Zoo

Pedring, Quiel and Ramon may soon become household names again — but in a positive way this time. The three are cubs born to a tiger at the Manila Zoo last August, according to a report by radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo. But zoo head veterinarian Dr. Donald Manalastas clarified the names are "unofficial" and "temporary" at this time, the report said. He said the zookeepers merely named them after three recent cyclones that lashed the country in late September. "Pedring" (Nesat), "Quiel" (Nalgae) and "Ramon" (Banyan) had lashed parts of the country last September, claiming over 100 lives and causing billions of pesos in damage. Manila Zoo was affected when Pedring lashed Luzon in late September. The report quoted zoo officials as saying there are at least 11 tigers presently in the zoo. It added the three new additions are doing well. — RSJ, GMA News