Moreno says to preserve Arroceros Forest Park, Manila Zoo

MANILA - Mayor-elect Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso on Sunday said he will preserve the Arroceros Forest Park and the Manila Zoo, amid alleged threats to sell these city properties.

Domagoso told DZMM Teleradyo that he has no intention to sell the Arroceros park, dubbed as the last lung of Manila. He added that he intends to reopen the park to the public and develop it as a place where Manila residents can relax amid green surroundings.

"We will try to make it na talagang parang pasyalan ng tao," Domagoso said.

The outgoing administration of incumbent Mayor Joseph Estrada had earlier planned to turn the park into a gymnasium. But during the campaign for the mayoralty, Estrada said he would also preserve the park.

The incoming Manila Mayor added that the Manila Zoo will not be sold and vowed to look into the situation of the animals in the facility. He said he'll look into reports that the zoo's animals were not being properly fed.

"We'll look into it. We guarantee you that all animals will be protected."

A newspaper reported that the city government was set to enter into a joint venture with a private firm to develop Manila Zoo.

The zoo has been hounded recently by controversy as it was found to be dumping untreated wastewater into the Manila Bay.

Last year, one of the zoo's lions was also captured on video having what appeared to be a seizure.