PETA condemns Manila Zoo for ‘imprisoning’ new baby lion Isla

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has criticized Manila Zoo for taking in another animal, a baby lioness cub named Isla.

“PETA, alongside compassionate Filipinos, condemns Manila Zoo’s decision to imprison yet another innocent animal. Isla, a baby lion, is the latest victim in the zoo’s collection of suffering, living beings," PETA Senior Vice President Jason Baker said in a statement.

“Manila Zoo has repeatedly shown that it cannot meet even the most basic standards of care for the animals it imprisons," the statement continued.

PETA cited how longtime Manila Zoo resident, elephant Mali passed away in her concrete pen where she lived for 50 years. Mali died in November 2023. She was believed to be 48-49 years old at the time of her death.

“The widespread public outcry over Manila Zoo’s regressive decision underscores that Filipinos have not forgotten the tragic fate of Mali. The zoo’s history of subjecting animals to a life of misery is now plain for all to see,” the statement said.

According to PETA Isla deserves better than being confined in a zoo. "She should be placed in the hands of experts who can rehabilitate her and ultimately assess her for release back into the wild or transfer to a sanctuary.”

Manila Zoo introduced Isla on Tuesday.

She was given to the zoo by the Manila Achievers Lions Club, District 301-A3, whose members were present at the turnover. Mayor Lacuna and Manila Public Recreations Bureau (PRB) Chief and Officer-in-Charge Roland Marino were also present.

Manila Zoo said they are still raising Isla to grow and get stronger, and will not be displayed to the public in the meantime.

Manila Zoo is located on Adriatico Street in Malate, Manila. It first opened in 1959, then was renovated and reopened in 2022.