Over 600 children joined the costume party called "Spooktacular Halloween Fest" organized by the Manila local government at the Manila Zoo on Tuesday, Oct. 31.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna led the distribution of loot bags containing candy treats to the children.

The mayor was wearing a Snow White costume and was accompanied by employees of the Parks and Recreation Bureau and the Mayor's Office.

The children, aged 12 years old and below, were dressed up in their best Halloween costumes and were required to register with their guardians.

The zoo was also designed with Halloween statues and decorations to entertain the visitors.

Mayor Honey said it was the first costume party held inside the Manila Zoo.

"Ito ang kauna-unahang ‘Spooktacular’ event dito sa loob ng Manila Zoo. At gusto po namin na ang lahat ng mga bata na kasama nating mga bata ngayong hapon pati na rin ang kanilang mga magulang ay mag-enjoy (This is the first 'Spooktacular' event held inside the Manila Zoo. And we want all the children who are with us this afternoon as well as their parents to enjoy)," Lacuna-Pangan said.

Children with the best costumes were awarded; a raffle draw was also held.

The city government also invited the public to visit the zoo. The entrance rates in Manila Zoo are as follows:

Adults and Children - P150 (Manila residents) and P300 (non-residents of Manila)

Student - P100 (Manila residents) and P200 (non-residents of Manila)

Persons with Disability (PWDs) / Senior Citizens - 20% discount on prescribed fees

Two years old and below - free of admission

Government Employees or Teachers of Manila - P100

It added that visitors availing of special rates are required to present their valid identification cards upon entering the zoo.