A zoo in Ilocos Sur has issued an official apology after a video was posted online showing male lion King being improperly handled for photo purposes, sparking outrage on social media.
The Baluarte Zoo Foundation acknowledged the seriousness of the incident in a statement and said the incident is currently under investigation.
“The incident shown in the video is being thoroughly investigated and we are reviewing our procedures to prevent this from happening again,” the statement said.
The video, which has been shared online, shows questionable practices at the zoo. Some of the zookeepers can be seen kicking the lion’s legs and pulling its tail to pose for photos.
Management described the behavior shown in the video as “completely unacceptable” and said it would take steps to hold those responsible accountable.
They added that immediate measures, including increased staff training and stricter monitoring, will be taken to prevent a recurrence.
“We are aware of the moral concerns surrounding photo opportunities with animals. We do not take these concerns lightly and continually evaluate how these activities can be conducted in the most ethical manner possible,” management added.
The Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare, shared photos of King on Instagram and noted that it had received numerous messages and reports about the viral video.
“In the video recently shared online, King looked very tired, sleepy and uncomfortable. Other videos show some behavior by the keepers that we believe is inappropriate – such as pulling his tail, pushing and kicking his leg to make him look good in photos. Others say King was drugged, given his docile, dazed appearance and unnatural behavior… definitely not the king of the jungle!” the AKF said.
The AFK also called on the public to stop taking selfies and photo ops with the lion, as this is the only solution to put an end to this “cruel practice”.
“We can only appeal to the operators and owner of Baluarte, former Governor Chavit Singson, whose love and fascination for animals was a major influence in the establishment of this facility, to ensure that the welfare of the animals is their top priority,” the foundation added.
