The former Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Singson declared that he fired the employee who went popular for reportedly hitting his white lion named King at his Resort in Baluarte and his Mini Zoo in Ilocos.
Singson stated in the interview that he is aware of the video that has been spread in the social media that the employee allegedly kicked the lion in order to take photos with the tourists.
However, the politician denied that the lion was experiencing abuse in the zoo.
“Hindi naman totoo ‘yun. Ang lion mukhang inaantok kasi talagang puyat ‘yang mga ‘yan ‘pag gabi sumisigaw, nag-sisigawan sila. Kaya talagang inaantok ‘yung mga lion,” he explained.
“Pero ‘yung lalaki na sabi nila na sinampal niya, pinatanggal ko agad. Hindi lang…isa ‘yung mortal sin sa Baluarte, sa akin ‘yan kapag may nag-maltrato ng hayop. Pero ang sabi niya laro lang naman niya ‘yun. Hindi naman niya sinaktan,” Singson added.
Based on the reports received by the Animal Kingdom Foundation (AKF), there were statements that the staff was exposed in a video kicking the lion even though it can be seen tired and uncomfortable.
The Baluarte Resort released a statement regarding the circulating video online.
“We sincerely apologize for this incident and the distress it has caused. Please know that we are committed to making the necessary changes to ensure that our zoo remains a place where animals are treated with the utmost care and respect.’’
Photo courtesy: Animal Kingdom Foundation