Frequently Asked Questions

Who started MyZoo?

The MyZoo Volunteer Group was formed in January 2000 by Kathy Chua and Kitty Arce. It was recognized as a non-profit, non-government organization by the SEC on October 2, 2000 – thus, it is a foundation.

Why did you start MyZoo?

Kathy Chua first volunteered at the Manila Zoo in December 1999, after bringing in orphaned children to the zoo and seeing the enthusiasm they showed towards learning about the animals. Kitty Arce first came to the zoo in January 2000, whilstful filling a New Year's resolution to do something good for the environment.The two volunteers joined forces to create the MyZoo Volunteer Group Foundation.

Where do you operate?

The MyZoo Foundation operates in zoos and wildlife rescue centers in the Philippines. Activity is currently focused in Metro Manila and the surrounding area, although the Foundation plans to expand into other parts of the country, such as the environmentally important island of Palawan.

What do you do?

The foundation aims to help renovate animal enclosures and create behavioral and enrichment programs for the animals with the assistance of zoo veterinarians. MyZoo supports conservation programs of DENR PAWB-Wildlife Rescue Center, and of other conservation groups. MyZoo also wishes to help maintain zoo grounds. The foundation also organizes fund raising activities to help support these kinds of programs and projects.

How many members do you have?

The MyZoo Foundation has more than 200 active members.

Are you a registered charity?

Yes. The MyZoo Volunteer Group Foundation was recognized by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a non-profit, non-government organization on the 2nd October, 2000. The SEC registration number is A200014921.

Do you have government support?

Yes. Although the MyZoo Foundation is entirely separate from the Government, it has been recognized by the National Youth Commission as one of the Top 10 Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) in the Philippines.

What are your plans for the future?

MyZoo plans to expand its operations to other zoos and rescue centers around the Philippines, and then to other sites around Southeast Asia.

Why should I help you?

You might want to help us because we are trying to achieve something that will benefit you, your family, your children, and the future generations who will live in the environment that we have left behind as our legacy. You also might want to help us because we are trying to change attitudes and increase awareness of the environment through education. Or you might want to help us so that you can give something back to society. Whatever your reason for helping, one thing is for sure – you will be doing something special, and sending a message to the world that you care.

How can I get involved?

If you want to get involved, and try to help us to protect endangered species, conserve the environment and educate people about environmental issues, you can join us – by becoming a member or participating in our volunteer programs – or you can support us – by making a donation, sponsoring an event, or adopting an animal.

Does it really matter if (Philippine) species become extinct?

Yes, it does matter. Our environment can only be maintained if the fragile and unique balance of the ecosystem is conserved. If even one species is removed from the foodchain by "unnatural" causes, this can have a devastating effect. Also, there are numerous medicinal and scientific benefits that can be gained from studying the diverse species that make up our environment. If you are still not convinced, just pay us a visit and we will show you why it is so important to protect endangered species.

I have a child... how should I make him/her aware of wildlife and the importance of the environment?

There are many ways that you can educate your child or children about the environment. You can read stories about wildlife that contain an environmental message, visit a zoo or wildlife rescue center, get a family pet (so that the child learns about taking care of animals), take family holidays in the countryside, or even buy coloring books with pictures of animals and their names. If your child knows how to use the Internet, you can tell him or her about some of the great wildlife websites that contain interesting facts and pictures of amazing animals online!

How can I arrange for you to come and talk to my students?

We are very happy to visit your school, college or university (or even your office) and hold a short talk on basic pet care and animal conservation, and to allow animal interaction in venues outside the zoo. A Zoo To You workshop costs approximately 50 US dollars (P 2,500) for locations in Metro Manila – covering the animal food, transportation and facilitation fee. If you are outside Manila, please contact us and we will let you know whether it will be feasible for us to transport the animals to your location.