By Cherrylin Caacbay
Mayor Franciso “Isko” Domagoso said he is hoping that the newly renovated Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden (Manila Zoo) will become a place for Filipino families to build more memories.
In his speech during its soft opening on Thursday, Dec. 30, Domagoso expressed his gratitude to the construction workers who built Manila Zoo’s new features including an animal museum, botanical and butterfly gardens, and a separate area for Filipino endemic animals.
“Ako po ay lubos na nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng mga kawani ng pamahalaang lungsod gayundin ang mga construction worker na nagtulong-tulong para itayo at bigyan ng bagong bihis ang Manila Zoo, (I am sincerely thanking all the staff of the city government and the construction workers who helped build and give Manila Zoo a new look)” read in a Facebook post.
“Isang makabago at maaliwalas na Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden ang inyong mapapasyalan kasama ang inyong mga mahal sa buhay (A new modern and spacious Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden will be open to accommodate you together with your loved ones),” the city mayor added.
The event was also attended by Public Recreations Bureau Director Alipio Morabe, Manila Vice Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna- Pangan, and other city councilors.
First built in 1959, Domagoso said 17,028 individuals can occupy Manila Zoo.
“Sana makapagdulot ito ng munting kaligayahan sa bawat isa sa inyo (I hope this can bring happiness to each and every one of you),” Domagoso added.