New Delhi, Mar 19 (IANS): Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez has come out in support of an ailing elephant that is at Manila Zoo and has requested the government to shift her to a sanctuary.

On behalf of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia, Jacqueline has sent a letter to William John T. Perera, consulate general of the Philippines in Colombo, Sri Lanka, urging him to do everything that he can to expedite the transfer of the elephant Mali from the inadequate Manila Zoo to a lush sanctuary.

Mali has been confined to a small enclosure at the zoo since she was transferred to Manila from Sri Lanka 36 years ago and has spent most of that time in solitary confinement.

In the letter, the 27-year-old has made a plea for Mali's freedom.

"I feel a genuine kinship with Mali since we were both born in Sri Lanka. This proud native daughter has come to symbolize oppression and cruelty, things that compassionate Sri Lankans and Filipinos condemn," said Jacqueline, who was also crowned Miss Universe Sri Lanka in 2006.

"I hope you agree that Mali should not have to suffer any longer. Let's give our girl a second chance at life," she added.