Zoos are places of captivity where groups of wild creatures are displayed in isolation, with the primary goal of entertaining visitors and educating them about all kinds of wildlife. It can be a safe and entertaining place, However, there are many zoos in the world where animal rights are not met and are being abused. 

The Manila Zoo ceased operations in 2019 and issued its renovation for the purpose of cleanliness and safety with customers looking forward to an attractive and safer zoo. However, there is a negative aspect to this development that concerns animals.

Situated in one of the most congested and polluted areas of the Philippines, Manila, the zoo has been the focus of controversy and scrutiny—and rightfully so—due to its unethical negligence over the wildlife in the facility, among many other reasons. These include keeping animals in concrete enclosures that do not accommodate their natural habitat, failing to provide medical attention to animals that result in various illnesses developing within the zoo, and subjecting them to daily psychological stress due to construction noise and living as spectacles.

As these animals suffer, the government benefits from knowing how much they will earn after the construction without thinking about the wellness of the animals. More zoos have different situations where animal rights standards still need to be met but are still operating. After these issues came to light, its real purpose can be seen which is capitalizing on tourism but not animal care.

Therefore, this advocacy is made to prevent more inhumane treatment of animals and their suffering. We are making a stand and being a voice to spread awareness of the incidents happening not only in Manila Zoo but all the other zoos that are not treating animals right. The Manila Zoo issue is simply one of many instances of the government capitalizing off of wildlife without providing sufficient care.

By signing this petition, we encourage the Manila City Government to take action and utilize the funds in prioritizing animal wellness in the zoo as an alternative for infrastructural renovations. Animals should not only be viewed as a spectacle. Rather, they should be treated with the utmost respect and protection as they are also living beings like us.

Animal Rights are Human Rights. Save a Life, Be Their Voice!