The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) criticized Manila Zoo for accepting a baby lioness cub named Isla, arguing that the zoo’s history of animal mistreatment makes it an unsuitable environment for the young lioness.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Aug. 21, PETA Senior Vice President Jason Baker condemned the zoo’s decision.
“PETA, alongside compassionate Filipinos, condemns Manila Zoo’s decision to imprison yet another innocent animal. Isla, a baby lioness, is the latest victim in the zoo’s collection of suffering, living beings,” said Baker.
“Manila Zoo has repeatedly shown that it cannot meet even the most basic standards of care for the animals it imprisons,” he added.
PETA pointed to the recent death of Mali, an elephant who spent almost 50 years in a concrete enclosure at Manila Zoo. The organization argued that Mali’s tragic fate highlights the zoo’s inability to provide adequate care for its animals.
“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 misery is plain for all to see,” the statement continued.
PETA urged Manila Zoo to release Isla into the wild or transfer her to a sanctuary, arguing that she deserves a better life than being “imprisoned.”
Manila Zoo introduced Isla to the public on Tuesday, Aug. 20, with officials stating that the young lioness is still being raised and will not be on display for the time being.
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