NOT only the Manila Zoo, but the only known elephant in captivity in Metro Manila is dead.

This was announced by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna via video on Tuesday night. Mali was 49 years old.

An Asian elephant’s life expectancy is 48 years old. African bush and African forest elephants last until 60-70 years old.

“To our fellow Manilans and fellow Filipinos, I am sorry to inform you of the passing of our beloved Vishwamali, better known as Mali,” Lacuna said.

According to Lacuna, Mali died at 3:45 p.m. inside her home at the Manila Zoo in Malate. 

The cause of death was still being determined.

Mali, a female elephant, was born in Sri Lanka in 1974.  In 1977, she was donated to then-First Lady Imelda Marcos. 

Run free towards the rainbow bridge, Mali.