The Malabon Zoo on Tuesday held its annual “Iwas Paputok Drive for the Sake of Animals” a day before New Year’s Eve, continuing a 35-year advocacy promoting safer celebrations for both pets and children.

The yearly campaign encourages families to avoid firecrackers and loud explosives that can cause injuries and distress, especially to animals.

Zoo founder Manny Tangco led the distribution of torotots, or party horns, to children visiting the zoo, offering them a safer alternative to firecrackers. Children were seen smiling and eagerly trying the noise-makers.

“Namimigay po kami ng mga paputok dito sa mga Bata para wag na sila gagamit ng mga firecrackers na makakaharm sa kanilang mga kamay,” Tangco said.

Tangco also stressed the importance of keeping household pets indoors during New Year’s Eve celebrations to prevent anxiety and distress caused by loud noises.

The zoo advised pet owners to use positive noise for their animals, such as playing calm or classical music, putting on their pets’ favorite shows, and confining them in a safe space where they cannot injure themselves or damage household items.

“We are advising pet owners to bring your dogs and cats inside the house this December 31. Let’s get them used to watching TV or listening to music so that when night comes, they will be distracted and won’t get scared,” Tangco added.

According to the zoo’s management, Malabon Zoo cares for around 100 animal species within its one-hectare facility, including Bengal tigers, orangutans, peacocks, and lions.

Tangco said animal care should go beyond providing food and shelter and must include genuine compassion.

“We only have one secret word: Love. Love for animals. We aren’t paid to care for these animals; we care for them from the bottom of our hearts. A nanny’s care is different from a mother’s. To them, we are their Mothers and Fathers,” he said.

As part of the event, children joined a parade around the zoo accompanied by a horse, the Chinese zodiac animal representing 2026. Tangco said the horse symbolizes power, enthusiasm, and adventure.

“It would be a good year for the Philippines because the horse will be the one guiding us. Powerful, enthusiastic, and adventurous!” Tangco said.

Tangco also invited families to visit the zoo to reconnect with nature, urging parents to give children hands-on experiences with animals rather than limiting learning to screens.

“We can watch nature shows and films the whole day but experiencing it first hand up close is different. There’s a saying that a thousand documentaries is equivalent to 1 eye to eye contact with a living tiger,” Tangco concluded.