Pasyalan Alert: Here's What To Expect When The Renovated Manila Zoo Opens

After two years, the Manila Zoo will soon welcome guests again, and this time with new facilities and a fresher look!

On Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021, the local government of Manila City shared on their official Facebook page some photos to give a glimpse of what the newly-renovated Manila Zoo looks like. The post quickly generated thousands of likes and comments, praising the major improvement of the popular pasyalan.

In another social media post by the city mayor, Isko Moreno Domagoso happily announced that the Manila Zoo is slated for a soft opening on December 30, 2021. As a 'thank you' to those who worked hard to make the renovation possible, families of zoo workers will be treated as VIP guests and will get first dibs when the attraction reopens.

Domagoso wrote in his caption, "sa December 30 po ay bubuksan natin ang Manila Zoo para sa mga pamilya ng mga taong nagtrabaho para isaayos at pagandahin ang Manila Zoo."

Sneak peek inside the new Manila Zoo

Here are some of the new features families can look forward to once the refurbished zoo opens its doors again.

Grand entrance

Visitors will be welcomed with an awe-inspiring facade along with an elephant statue. It's safe to say that this is to pay tribute to the zoo's famous elephant, Mali.

Modern design

The new facilities have bamboo elements on their designs, which blend seamlessly with the lush trees around the area.

Relaxing pathwalks

Parts of the zoo look like an oasis in the middle of the city, with picturesque path walks and water fountains.

Golf carts for senior citizens

The city government allotted around Php1.8 billion for the redevelopment project. In September 2021, during a Facebook live, one of the things Domagoso said visitors can expect is the golf carts, which the elderly can use when strolling around the zoo.

Cleanliness is prioritized

The zoo also now has its own sewerage system. It could be remembered that the zoo was shutdown in 2019 after the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) found it that it was one of the major pollutants of Manila Bay.

In a report by GMA News, the improved attraction will also have an Animal Museum, Botanical Garden, and the Butterfly Garden. A section is also allotted to highlight animals that are endemic or can only be found in the Philippines. 

There's no specific date yet on when the general public can start booking their tickets to visit the zoo but we sure are looking forward to it!

A trip to the animal zoo is not only a fun family bonding but also offers an opportunity for kids to learn more and develop empathy for animals.

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