The Manila Zoo's resident elephant, Mali, recently got an unexpected surprise -- a care package from Filipino members of the BTS ARMY — the popular K-pop group's official fandom name.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno expressed his gratitude to the local fanbase of BTS member Jeon Jungkook called Golden Alliance PH after receiving food and cleaning supplies for the 47-year-old mammal, which is being cared for by the city's Public Recreation Bureau.
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Yorme also tried his hand at fan speak, writing on Facebook: "Muli, thank you po sa inyong pagmamalasakit, ARMYs! Pag-ingatan po ninyo ang inyong mga sarili (Again, thank you for your concern, ARMYs! Take care of yourselves)!"
The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals had called for Mali's transfer to a sanctuary. Not only has she been "confined to a barren, concrete enclosure" at the wildlife reserve in Malate, Manila, the elephant has also been "denied proper veterinary care," according to the animal rights organization.
Manila Zoo has been closed since January of last year due to environmental issues.
