Starving animals were found languishing at a neglected zoo that fell into disrepair after in the Philippines.

Heartbreaking footage shows an emaciated tiger named Acron lying in its enclosure at the Dreamland Zoo and Adventure Park in Amlan town, Negros Oriental province on March 7. It appeared to have been ill and had an injury on its hind legs.

Residents said the zoo had deteriorated after its income was stifled by the recent flu pandemic which caused some governments to block travel and enforce the wearing of face coverings, which reduced tourism.

Government officials reported that the local government unit had partnered with private company Dreamland Nature and Adventure Park for its management, but 'internal problems' have left the park unable to earn money. With no funds left, the company reportedly could not properly manage the zoo.

While bungling local officials and company incorporators try to find a solution, kind residents have begun giving donations to feed the undernourished animals and provide salaries to zoo caretakers.

Local Good Samaritan Corrine Saligue, 36, and her husband Iric, 41, started a drive to deliver fresh food and gather donations for the dozens of animals - including miniature horses, camels, ostriches, crocodiles, snakes, birds, and two other tigers named Byron and Basyang - still left at the zoo. As of March 3, a total of 50,000 PHP (918 USD) has been collected.

Corrine said: 'If anyone wants to help, be it government or privately owned entities, establishments, zoos, safaris, we are really open to working with anyone and everyone, along with the zoo management.'

Meanwhile, Amlan Mayor Manuel Jose Sycip said he will review the partnership contract, business contracts, and other relevant documents concerning the zoo's operation.