An employee at Baluarte Zoo Who Mistreated a Lion Has Been Fired
BALUARTE ZOO – An employee at a zoological park in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, who mistreated a lion in a viral video, has been fired.
Baluarte Zoo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, was established by local politician and businessman Chavit Singson. Originally a rest house, it evolved into a zoo after Singson’s hunting trophies accumulated. Named “Baluarte” after the Spanish term for “stronghold,” the zoo aims to promote wildlife conservation and education. It features a range of animals, including ostriches, Bengal tigers, and lions, as well as a butterfly sanctuary. The Safari Gallery showcases preserved trophies from Singson’s hunts. Despite disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the zoo has since reopened, continuing to serve as an interactive wildlife sanctuary.
Recently, the zoo made headlines due to a viral video showing an employee hitting the lion on the nose and pulling its tail to make it pose for a photograph. The lion appears drowsy and distressed during the incident.
Following the video’s release, Baluarte Zoo announced the employee’s dismissal, effective immediately. The zoo emphasized its commitment to high standards of animal care and condemned any behavior that harms the animals. They also stated that they are taking steps to prevent similar incidents in the future and reaffirming their dedication to the humane treatment of animals.
The Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF) also became involved after the video went viral. They received requests to rescue the lion and urged both the public and Baluarte Zoo management to prohibit selfies with lions and other wild animals. AKF highlighted that while taking photos with such animals might seem harmless, it disrupts their natural behaviors and can cause stress, potentially leading to serious risks for the animals involved.
Meanwhile, former Governor Chavit Singson has addressed the issue, emphasizing that harming any animal, especially those in his care at the zoo, is a serious offense to him. He assured the public that he would promptly dismiss any staff members suspected of such misconduct.