During the incident outside SM Megmall in Mandaluyong City, Philippines. ARCHIVE

The security guard involved in a controversial incident with a sampaguita vendor outside SM Megamall has submitted a counter-affidavit to the Philippine National Police (PNP) Supervisory Office on Security and Investigation Agency (SOSIA). The guard, along with representatives from the security agency, filed their counter-affidavit to address allegations stemming from the widely circulated video. PNP Civil Security Group spokesperson Lt. Col. Eudisan Gultiano confirmed that the counter affidavit was filed by a representative of the security agency on Thursday. The PNP SOSIA will conduct a preliminary evaluation within seven days. Should probable cause be established, a formal complaint will be filed before a summary hearing officer, who will have 30 days to resolve the case. Key to the investigation is summoning the 22-year-old sampaguita vendor. “If she does not appear, the resolution of the preliminary evaluation will be based on the counter-affidavits and other evidence gathered by our investigators,” Gultiano said. The incident, captured on video, shows the vendor sitting outside the mall’s entrance wearing a school uniform. The guard allegedly tried to remove her, leading to an altercation where he grabbed and destroyed her garlands and attempted to kick her. The vendor retaliated by striking the guard with her hands holding the damaged garlands. The viral video has sparked mixed reactions. Some netizens criticized the vendor for allegedly wearing a school uniform to gain public sympathy. In contrast, others condemned the guard's violent actions, arguing that the issue transcends appearances and focuses on harassment and abuse of power. The guard may face charges under Republic Act 11917, or the Private Security Services Industry Act. Sanctions could include the suspension of his license and a fine for the security agency. This case has reignited discussions on the treatment of informal vendors in urban spaces and the responsibilities of security personnel in handling sensitive situations. SOSIA continues to emphasize its commitment to impartial investigations and upholding accountability for violations. ICA/Expat Media
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