MANILA, Philippines – Plans are accordingly afoot for the city government of Manila to construct a futuristic, elevated monorail system for the use of zoogoers and tourists alike at the 5.5 hectares historic Manila Zoo.

Aside from the ambitious project, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said rebranding and rebuilding of the oldest zoo in the country are also on the drawing board.

The beautification and revitalization of the Manila Zoo can be considered a done deal following Tuesday’s signing of a loan agreement between the local city government of Manila and the Land Bank of the Philippines.

“The Sky Shuttle People will take people around the Manila Zoo so they will be able to see the animals and zoo attractions on the ground and above ground,” the mayor told Land Bank officials.

Under the agreement, the Land Bank will issue a P10 billion loan to the city government to finance major projects including the Manila Zoo and housing for the poor.

The mayor had earlier said it wants to bring back the beauty of one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, which is also a family-oriented venue.

The mono-rail installation aims to make tourists’ visits to the entire zoo something to remember like in major zoos around the world. (Chris Figueroa/IAMIGO/CNS)