Mandaluyong City, Philippines - The Mandaluyong City Police Department has confirmed the identity of the young woman seen in a viral video being assaulted by a mall security guard. Contrary to online speculation, the young woman is a legitimate student working to support her family.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, depicted the girl, wearing a school uniform, selling sampaguita flowers outside the mall when a security guard approached her, ordered her to leave, and then proceeded to destroy her merchandise.

Police Chief Col. Mary Grace Madayag clarified that the young woman is an 18-year-old Medical Technology student at a university in Manila. She sells sampaguita flowers to help her family cope after their recent displacement due to the demolition of their home in Quezon City.

Madayag emphasized that the student is a scholar and a hardworking individual, refuting claims that she was part of a begging syndicate. The school uniform she wore in the video was from her former high school and is now used as her everyday attire.

The incident, which occurred on December 17, 2024, was initially captured by a vlogger without the student's knowledge. The video was initially taken down at the student's request but was later re-uploaded by the vlogger.

The PNP Civil Security Group has issued a summons to the security guard involved in the incident. The agency will also investigate the security company responsible.

Security Guard Faces Consequences

The security guard will face administrative charges, and the security agency may face fines or even a suspension of their license. Aggravating circumstances will be considered when determining the appropriate penalties.

The Mandaluyong City Police Department, along with the Commission on Human Rights, Quezon City Police District, and village officials, visited the student and her family to offer support and assistance.

This incident has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for greater compassion and understanding towards individuals struggling to make ends meet.