Acclaimed actor John Arcilla expressed strong opposition to the Manila local government’s plan to bring a new elephant to Manila Zoo following the death of Mali, the zoo’s long-standing elephant.
Arcilla argued that elephants belong in sanctuaries, not confined in a city zoo. He voiced his concerns on Instagram, questioning the necessity of imprisoning an endangered animal in an urban setting.
Echoing his sentiments, several netizens suggested redirecting funds to improve city features or establish animal shelters, emphasizing that the sight of malnourished animals in zoos does not bring joy. Mali, the elephant that previously resided in Manila Zoo, was a gift from Sri Lanka in 1977 and passed away on November 28, possibly due to heart failure.