Security Guard Dismissed After Sampaguita Vendor Incident at SM Megamall

In a viral incident that has sparked widespread attention, a security guard at SM Megamall has been dismissed after being caught on video mishandling a young girl selling sampaguita garlands outside the mall in Mandaluyong City. SM Supermalls has issued an official statement condemning the guard's actions and reaffirming their commitment to inclusivity.

Incident Details

The video, which circulated on social media platforms, shows the security guard attempting to shoo away a girl dressed in her school uniform as she sold sampaguita garlands near the steps of SM Megamall’s west side. The interaction escalated when the guard grabbed the garlands, destroying some in the process. The visibly upset girl retaliated by hitting the guard with the remaining flowers. The video also shows the guard trying to kick the girl before turning his attention to a boy sitting nearby.

The viral footage has elicited a strong response online, with netizens expressing both outrage and sympathy for the young vendor. Many have criticized the guard’s aggressive approach, describing it as unnecessary and inhumane, while a few have highlighted the challenges faced by security personnel.

SM Supermalls’ Response

SM Supermalls, owned by the Sy family, issued a statement on social media expressing regret and sympathy for the young girl. The statement read:

“We have called the attention of the security agency to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation. The security guard has been dismissed and will no longer be allowed to service any of our malls.”

The company emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and condemned the actions of the guard, stating, “As SM Supermalls always promotes inclusivity for all, we strongly condemn this act committed against her.”

Official Investigation

The Philippine National Police - Civil Security Group (PNP-CSG) has launched an administrative investigation into the incident. Police Lieutenant Colonel Eudisan Gultiano, chief of the CSG public information office, stated:

“The Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (SOSIA) has immediately taken action. They are conducting a fair and swift investigation into the possible liabilities of the security guard and his agency.”

This investigation aims to determine whether the guard and the security agency should face further sanctions.

Public Reaction

The incident has drawn mixed reactions online. Many netizens have sympathized with the young vendor, condemning the guard’s behavior as excessive. One commenter wrote, “There are ways to shoo a vendor away, but what this guard did was horrendous. He not only destroyed her sampaguita but also physically assaulted her.”

Others, however, called for understanding of the guard’s perspective. “The guard is also human and likely exhausted from hours of standing. Perhaps he had repeatedly asked the girl to leave but lost patience,” another commenter remarked.

A Call for Tolerance

This incident highlights the delicate balance between enforcing mall policies and treating individuals with compassion, particularly minors trying to earn a living. SM Supermalls’ decisive action in dismissing the guard reflects their commitment to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and fostering a culture of understanding and respect within public spaces.