This is regarding the report “Baguio eyes P400-M zoo” (2/2/21).
Building a zoo to bolster biodiversity is akin to chopping down trees to save forests. Collections of animals in an inherently artificial environment do nothing to foster the public’s connection to the natural world or cultivate respect. Instead of money being squandered to keep animals in captivity, resources could be used to reduce the factors contributing to the decline of species in nature: habitat destruction, poaching, and the exotic-animal trade. If those root causes aren’t addressed and remedied, all the cages in the world won’t be enough to save animals at risk.
There’s growing recognition that keeping animals in cages for the public’s amusement is ethically indefensible. Baguio should focus on its already bountiful attractions: its pine-clad hills, appealing climate, and natural hot springs. City leaders can promote hiking, camping, and bird watching—all outdoor activities that connect people, especially children, to nature. That kind of forward thinking will benefit Baguio and biodiversity.
Jason Baker,
senior vice president,
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals-Asia