In preparation for its formal opening on November 21, 2022, the Manila Zoo was inspected by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna and Vice Mayor Yul Servo.
Joining them in touring the zoo were Parks and Recreation Bureau chief Pio Morabe, the mayor’s spokesperson Atty. Princess Abante and the mayor’s executive assistant, Evelyn de Guzman, among others.
During the tour, Lacuna directed Morabe to ensure that the names of the plants and trees, specially their scientific names, are right, so that the visiting youngsters learn about them correctly.
Lacuna later told an interview with the covering media that the number of visitors that would be allowed per day will be limited to only 2,000 since the country continues to the in the wake of a pandemic.
“Those planning to visit the zoo are highly encouraged to buy their tickets online, although 500 slots will also be allotted for walk-ins Payments may be made in the kiosks, 7-11, bank transfer, credit card, GCash or Bayad Centers. Using the manilazoo.ph, online registration and purchase of tickets will be available starting November 20, 2022,” the mayor said.
“On special occasions like Christmas though, the said total number of visitors that will be allowed into the zoo may be increased,”Lacuna added.
According to Servo, based on the ordinance that was passed by the Manila City Council, the prices of admission are as follows: Adult and child – P150 for Manilans and P300 for non-Manilans; Students – P100 for Manilans and P200 for non- Manilans and city employes, P100. Senior citizens and persons with disability get 20 percent discount while children two years old and below may enter for free. Manilans may present government-issued IDs to prove their residency and avail of the discount.
Morabe said the bringing of food will not be allowed at the Manila Zoo, citing many instances where animals die because they have been fed plastic and other items that are not ingestible, adding that that the zoo will be operating from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a cut-off for entry of guests at 6 p.m.daily. (JERRY S. TAN)
