“I have visited the Manila Zoo several times even before doing my thesis. There, I talked to caretakers and asked about the problems they usually encounter like budget constraints, maintaining the health and welfare of the animals, among others,” he discloses. 

“I also observed the animals and the environment they are in. I saw that there are changes that we can do for the zoo, [such as] redesigning the homes of the animals, which was the primary change I wanted to address in my thesis project,” he adds.

If people decide to step into the park today, they will be welcomed with elevated viewing decks, transparent glass enclosures for the animals, viewing lofts at the Butterfly Garden, and several partitions for species that are endemic to the Philippines.

These modernised spaces were what inspired Jose T. Mañosa & Associates, who further produced more detailed plans for the zoo. "The redevelopment of Manila Zoo was spearheaded by the local government of Manila in collaboration with one of the most renowned architectural firms in the country, the Mañosa & Associates. After I donated my thesis, it was them who led the conceptualisation."

Siy, who frequents zoos abroad, noticed the disparities between enclosures in other countries and in the Philippines. “I tried my best to fully maximise the area of the Manila Zoo mostly for the animals’ enclosures. That’s why I incorporated a new moat system specifically designed depending on the type of animal in that particular enclosure and ideally would make the enclosure more spacious. At the same time, it would become an efficient physical barrier as well from the visitors of the zoo.”

“My family and I have a strong affection for animals and we take care of some ourselves at home. That’s why my fondness for animals somehow made it easier for me while I was doing my thesis project because it was something that I was passionate about,” he shares.

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The animals of Manila Zoo were not alone in their calls for a better sanctuary. Zoo Crew Philippines (ZCP), a team that has devoted so much effort to protecting and fostering the Manila Zoo's animal welfare, has always been present when it comes to educating the public about wildlife. In a dialogue with Tatler, the team provides some clarifications about Manila Zoo’s residents.

“I prefer that the captive animals stay and live out their days here where they are loved and well cared for. Animals born and raised under human care do not fare well if released back into the wild without proper rehabilitation and the right resettlement area,” explains Jerry Young, ZCP’s Operations Chief. 

Young explains that the elderly animals of Manila Zoo may only feel stress and pressure if transported back to their natural habitats. “Translocation of elderly, large herbivores is not easy. Stress caused by transport is risky and can even cause their ultimate demise.” 

“Bertha would not have live to shatter records worldwide if the zoo had been remiss in its care. The same holds true for Maali who has never had any major health issue since arriving from Sri Lanka over 40 years ago. In fact, Thai elephant expert Dr Nikorn Thongtip, who visited the park, said that Maali is in the ‘pink of health,’ this is because these animals have regular and stable supplies of food, constant veterinary care, and are protected from poaching, human encroachment, and habitat loss,” discloses Young. 

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In the coming days, the ZCP hopes that the newly-renovated Manila Zoo would be more known as the centre for education, research, and conservation.

“The newly improved and expanded facilities are definitely a better environment for the animals. These will also facilitate more efficient and harmonious interactions with visitors,” Young says.

“Manila Zoo is often dubbed as ‘the first zoo in Asia.’ Today, Mayor Moreno wants it to be known as a ‘world-class zoo.’ Personally, I believe people should know and remember that Manila Zoo serves as an important rescue centre that provides a home for wildlife species that have nowhere to go. Manila Zoo is far from just being an amusement park,” he concludes. 

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The attention lavished on the works of the Public Recreation Bureau of Manila has undeniably stirred conversations regarding animal rights and welfare. For many advocates, such as Siy and Young, the renovation of the once-forgotten zoo is a victory both for its guests and the animals who can now spend most of their days in better sceneries.

This narrative can only provide a limited scope when it comes to the plight of animals in the hands of mankind, but it hopes to put on view what little care can do in the long run.

“Manila Zoo has become a big part of my childhood. Seeing it fade through time urged me to do something about it. I believe that animals who live there deserve the best environment for it influences their health and welfare,” Siy heartily imparts.

*Note from the author: Kevin Siy donated his thesis to the local government of Manila, the interviewee now enjoys a special apprenticeship programme in the Mayor's office. 

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