Manila Zoo Close Petition asked by Netizens - Conditions of Animals (Photos)

After the Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda had his statements regarding the conditions of animals in Manila Zoo, netizens can't prevent themselves from commenting regarding the actual status of several animals in the zoo. As of 3:00 PM, July 14, 2011, the word Manila Zoo on number 2 trending topic in Twitter (Philippines).

Here are some of the reactions of twitter users regarding the current issue.

carlosceldran,
"@PepeDiokno I agree. Zoos should be in private sector. It's VERY expensive to run a zoo well. Make Manila Zoo a park. CLOSE MANILA ZOO."
CheckLit,
"So heartbreaking to the living conditions and the state of the animals at the Manila Zoo. They deserve so much better."
YengGuitar,
"manila zoo is on trending.. hayz! ka awa-awa nmn ang mga animals dun eh ... they should closed it for a maintenance so then they could clean"
filipinadiver,
"Been seeing the word Manila Zoo in my timeline. The best I've read: Animals sa Manila Zoo, parang supermodels. Ang payat lang :("
XIAN LIM,
“@annecurtissmith: Manila Zoo is way to small for an elephant and a Tiger they should be set free :(” set the tigers and elephants free!!!"
joyce_guevarra,
"went only once to Manila zoo. i never liked the experience."
Nadine Mejillano,
"Frankly, the Manila Zoo has become a sad place. With sad stinky species."

An online petition by the PETA Asia Pacific was also made requesting for the closing and renovations of the zoo. The article entitled "Sign the Petition: Stop More Animals From Suffering at the Manila Zoo" stated the suffering, boredom and isolation of animals inside their cages.

Meanwhile, here is the script of presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda regarding the condition of Manila Zoo (dated July 14, 2011).

"We share the concern expressed by concerned citizens over the condition in which animals are kept in the Manila Zoo. We have taken steps again to alert the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), which, under the provisions of Republic Act No. 8485, otherwise known as the Animal Welfare Act of 1998, places the animal welfare certification and regulation of zoos under the authority of the Director of Animal Industry and the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau of the DENR, pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act No. 9147 (Wildlife Protection and Conservation Act). As a response, the BAI, through the Committee on Animal Welfare, said that it continuously engages in a comprehensive discussion with the animal advocates, particularly on the condition of Mali the elephant and other animals in the zoo. They made a plan of action to uphold the welfare of the animals that should be led by zoo officials.

We have also communicated with the office of the City Mayor of Manila and are confident that Mayor Alfredo Lim will dialogue with concerned citizens. The City Mayor has directed Public Recreations Bureau Chief Engineer Deng Manimbo to receive assistance and support from concerned citizens. Those who may wish to help in raising funds or otherwise helping to restore the Manila Zoo may call telephone numbers 468-9498 and 383-6862.

It is noteworthy that concerned citizens have expressed the willingness to assist in any way they can, 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."