Actress Nadine Lustre and her boyfriend, Christophe Bariou, have publicly condemned Manila Zoo’s decision to display the taxidermied remains of Mali, the Philippines’ only elephant, who passed away last year.
The couple expressed their disappointment and called for respect toward the elephant, who had lived in captivity for more than 40 years.
“Mali’s legacy deserves respect, not display. Let her rest in peace!” Nadine posted on her Instagram Story.
Christophe, a Filipino-French businessman and staunch animal advocate, echoed her sentiments, stating, “Even after death, you choose not to show the minimal decency that Mali deserves, despite her lifetime of suffering. Shame on you.”
Mali was brought to the Philippines in 1977 from Sri Lanka as a gift to then-First Lady Imelda Marcos. For decades, she lived in captivity at Manila Zoo, becoming a symbol of the challenges faced by animals in zoos.
Dubbed the “world’s saddest elephant,” Mali was the subject of numerous campaigns by animal rights groups who called for her transfer to a sanctuary. These efforts were ultimately unsuccessful, and Mali passed away in November 2023.
According to Manila Zoo’s chief veterinarian, Mali likely died of heart failure. She was also found to have cancer and had suffered from damage to her kidneys, liver, and pancreas in her later years.
Manila Zoo’s decision to preserve Mali’s body through taxidermy and place it on public display has sparked a wave of criticism from animal welfare advocates and the public.
Critics argue that the display disrespects Mali’s memory and diminishes the suffering she endured during her lifetime. Nadine and Christophe’s statements have amplified these sentiments, urging the zoo to reconsider its decision.
