For elephant’s sake, Pamela wants date with Noy

MANILA, Philippines - Offbeat protests, press conferences and appeals have failed to persuade President Aquino to hasten the transfer of elephant Mali to Thailand.

Will a dinner date with former Baywatch beauty Pamela Anderson work?

Anderson sent a letter yesterday to the President, asking him to have dinner with her so they could discuss the transfer of the 39-year-old elephant to a sanctuary in Thailand.

Malacañang did not comment on the invitation, but deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Office of the Executive Secretary had already directed the Department of Agriculture to determine the appropriate location for Mali.

Several animal rights activists have tried but failed to convince the city government of Manila and Aquino to allow the transfer of Mali, one of the main attractions at the Manila Zoo.

The People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said the 45-year-old model and actress also expressed gratitude to Aquino for “taking a strong, serious stance” in behalf of Mali.

“I know that the Philippines is a great nation, and I hope you’ll help Mali by moving her to a sanctuary as soon as possible. If you find yourself in LA in the near future perhaps we can discuss this important matter over dinner,” Anderson said in her letter.

“In a world filled with political self-interest, your character and integrity are inspiring. I am concerned, however, that it has been eleven months since you became involved in Mali’s plight, yet she is still suffering in the zoo,” she added as she described Mali as “the saddest elephant in the world.”

She said a sanctuary in Thailand would be like “Malacañang for elephants.”

“In this place Mali would have the space to roam, be given care and have companion that she never experienced now that she is confined in the Manila Zoo.”

Anderson quoted Mahatma Gandhi: “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

PETA has long been campaigning for the elephant, claiming elephants could live to over 70 years in correct environment.

“However, considering her conditions at the Manila Zoo, Mali is likely to die young. The best way to save her life is to send her to a place that provides proper vet care and is more like an elephant’s natural habitat. Transferring elephants is safe and routine,” the group said. – With Aurea Calica