LOOK: Newly renovated Manila Zoo to reopen on Dec 30

Before the year ends, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso shared a sneak peek of the newly renovated Manila Zoo which is scheduled to reopen next week, Dec. 30. 

The Manila Zoo Sewage Treatment Plant /IMAGE from Manila Public Information Office

In 2019, the Manila Zoo was shut down due to major a sewage problem under the leadership of former Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada.

“Manila Zoo will be closed until further notice. The department of engineering and public works and the department of public services are ordered to submit a program of work for the construction or installation of water treatment facilities or sewerage treatment plants for Manila Zoo and other city facilities,” Estrada’s official statement back in 2019. 

The Manila Zoo Sewage Treatment Plant /IMAGE from Manila Public Information Office

Almost two years after the ‘until further status’, Domagoso took the initiative to renovate the facility of the iconic theme park of the Philippines. 

“To all Manileño and Filipinos, you deserve the best. Indeed, Filipino workers are great. We hope that you and your family will enjoy the new Manila Zoo,” Domagoso shared. 

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso//IMAGE from Manila Public Information Office

In a quick tour, Domagoso shared the photos of Manila Zoo’s gate that has the iconic sculpted figure of Mali, the famous Asian elephant gifted by the Sri Lanka government in 1977.

Due to renovation and facility improvement, all animals including Mali were transferred to a new facility to ensure their safety and improve their wellbeing.

The Manila Zoo/IMAGE from Manila Public Information Office

In July 2020, Domagoso shared a clip of Mali and gave an update on her condition.

“Every day we feed Mali with over 150 kilos of grass, vegetable, and fruits through the help of  Public Recreations Bureau (PRB) who never ceased to look after Mali and the rest of the animals of Manila Zoo,” he said.

Formerly known as Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, the Manila Zoo has been in Manila since 1959. With over a 5.5-hectare, it holds a diverse species of wild animals and it’s located at one of the historical places of Malate, Manila.