A new attraction awaits visitors of the National Museum as Mali, the country’s most famous elephant who lived at the Manila Zoo for nearly five decades, will soon be transferred to her new home at the National Museum.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso announced the decision as part of efforts to preserve Mali’s memory and ensure she remains well cared for under the supervision of scientists and preservationists.
During the visit of National Museum Director General Jeremy Barns, Domagoso expressed his trust in the museum’s ability to safeguard Mali’s legacy.
“We have a very good museum, bigay ko na sa’yo si Mali. Tutal andun si Lolong.”
“We have a very good museum, bigay ko na sa’yo si Mali. Tutal andun si Lolong, then you have Mali. Then we can immortalize the memories of the oldies today who had very good experiences with Mali in their younger years—na they can still see Mali in a controlled environment, well protected by our scientists and preservationists. Sa ‘yo na yan, bigay ko na sa ’yo,” the mayor told Barns.
“I feel more assured leaving Mali in the care of the National Museum since the city government does not have sufficient technology and human resources to properly preserve her remains.”
Domagoso added that he feels more assured leaving Mali in the care of the National Museum since the city government does not have sufficient technology and human resources to properly preserve her remains.
The National Museum chief welcomed the decision and assured the public that Mali’s preservation will be treated with utmost care.
Lolong, the former Guinness World Records holder as the largest saltwater crocodile, was enshrined at the National Museum following his death on February 10, 2013.
With Mali joining Lolong, the museum expects to strengthen its collection of iconic animals that have long captured the hearts of Filipinos.
