THE city government announced on Sunday that the Manila Zoo would remain in its current location, dismissing any relocation plans.

Mayor Honey Lacuna assured the public that future plans for the zoo would instead focus on modernization and effective management while honoring its sentimental value to the residents of Manila and all Filipinos.

"Relocating the Manila Zoo is farthest from our minds and not among the options we are considering. It will not be the zoo that it is if it were located somewhere else," Lacuna said.

On Saturday, Sen. Francis Tolentino reiterated on his X account his proposal to relocate Manila Zoo from its current site in Malate to the 2,000-hectare Masungi Georeserve Park in Baras, Rizal. He suggested that the transfer of the 5.5-hectare zoo property would offer a better habitat for the animals.

But Lacuna firmly said that relocating the zoo is not an option, highlighting that the city is waiting for the New Government Procurement Act and its Implementing Rules and Regulations to be enacted, as those are crucial to the zoo's future plans.

A panel of experts will be convened to conduct preparatory work, including research and hearings, to gather input from stakeholders. The discussion does not include relocating the animals to the Masungi Georeserve, said Lacuna.

"We want a Manila Zoo accessible to Manileños. Masungi is so far away that we are not even thinking of that. First, we want a good study and roadmap done," Lacuna added.

Nevertheless, the City of Manila thanked Tolentino for his concern regarding the future of the zoo and affirmed that following the recent passing of Mali, the beloved elephant, there has been considerable reflection on the zoo's future.

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