Photo credit: Manila Zoo

The Manila Zoo family just got a little bit bigger and a whole lot cuter with the arrival of their newest member—a baby lioness named Isla. Sharing the news on their Facebook page, the zoo introduced Isla with the caption:

"Amin pong ipinakikilala ang bagong miyembro ng ating Manila Zoo, isang batang babaeng leon, na pinangalanan nating 'Isla', para sa karagdagang eksibisyon at koleksyon ng ating mga hayop."*

Isla, whose name beautifully reflects the islands of the Philippines, is the latest addition to the zoo’s animal collection. She was graciously donated by the Manila Achievers Lions Club, District 301-A3, as part of their ongoing support for the zoo. This generous gesture was acknowledged by the city government of Manila, led by Mayor Maria Sheilah "Honey" Lacuna-Pangan, and the Bureau of Public Recreation, headed by Mr. Roland F. Marino, who expressed heartfelt thanks to the club for their contribution.

But here’s the catch: while we’re all eager to see Isla in person, she won’t be making her public debut just yet. The zoo is giving her some time to grow stronger and adjust to her new home before she meets her adoring fans. So, for now, we’ll just have to admire her from afar and eagerly wait for the day when she’s ready to steal our hearts in person.

Stay tuned for more updates on Isla’s progress and her upcoming debut at the Manila Zoo!