Photo credit to Pageant Talks Facebook page.
The Mandaluyong City Police announced on Friday that the girl featured in a viral video being forcibly removed by a security guard from a mall is an 18-year-old medical technology student and not a minor.
Mandaluyong City Police Chief Col. Mary Grace Madayag clarified that the young woman is a scholar at a private educational institution striving to support her family financially. Their home in Quezon City was recently demolished, prompting her to sell sampaguita garlands to help cover their living expenses and her school needs.
“We confirm that the girl is a legitimate student and, in fact, a scholar at a private institution. She’s a smart and hardworking young woman who is trying to support her family and education after their house was demolished,” Madayag told reporters.
Contrary to speculations, Madayag emphasized that the girl is not involved with any criminal syndicate and is focused on her studies.
Legal consultation and pending decision
Lawyers from the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) have met with the student for a legal consultation regarding possible actions against the mall security guard. However, the girl and her family have yet to decide whether to file charges.
“It depends on whether the family will pursue legal action against the vlogger or security guard who posted the video. As of last night, no decision has been made. The student has classes from Monday to Saturday and prioritizes maintaining her grades,” Madayag said.
The viral incident
The video, filmed on December 15, 2024, shows the student in her school uniform sitting on the steps outside a mall. A security guard approached her, instructed her to move, and then forcibly grabbed and tore apart her sampaguita garlands. The girl retaliated by throwing the ruined garlands at the guard. The situation escalated when the guard kicked the girl, who continued to defend herself as the guard’s walkie-talkie and handkerchief fell during the altercation.
Netizens widely condemned the guard’s actions, with many arguing it bordered on child abuse due to the perceived age of the girl at the time.
Guard dismissed, investigation ongoing
In response to public outcry, the mall issued a statement confirming the dismissal of the security guard involved. Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police-Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (PNP-SOSIA) has investigated the incident.
The student, unaware she was being filmed, has requested the video be removed from social media, but it remains widely circulated.
The incident has sparked debates about street vendors’ treatment and the importance of sensitivity training for security personnel. Many netizens have supported the young woman, lauding her determination to continue her education despite personal hardships.
This case reminds us of the challenges faced by working students and underscores the need for compassion and understanding in addressing similar situations.