‘Mali’ returns to Manila Zoo

MANILA, Philippines — The remains of Mali the elephant have been brought back to Manila Zoo after undergoing taxidermy.

A team of veterinarians led by Dr. Jason Sumaway performed Mali’s taxidermy, which took 11 months, GMA News reported.

The specimen was brought back to the zoo on Dec. 16.

The elephant, originally named Vishwa Ma’ali, was donated by Sri Lanka to the Philippines in 1981.

Mali died on Nov. 28, 2023 due to congestive heart failure, according to zoo officials.

Various groups and celebrities had slammed Mali’s living conditions inside the zoo, which they described as cruel.

Businessman Christophe Barious has condemned the display of Mali’s remains.

“Even after her death, you choose not to show the minimal decency that Mali deserves, despite her lifetime of suffering. Shame on you,” he posted on Instagram, which was shared by his girlfriend, actress Nadine Lustre.

The zoo management has yet to respond to a request for comment.

The Manila city council approved the contract for Mali’s taxidermy by PetEterniTy, free of charge.