Viral Sampaguita Vendor Confirmed as Scholar, Not Linked to Syndicate — Police

The sampaguita vendor who was assaulted by a security guard outside SM Megamall has been confirmed as a legitimate student and not part of any syndicate, the Mandaluyong City police announced on Friday.

“The young girl is a real student,” said Mandaluyong City Police chief Colonel Mary Grace Madayag.

A Scholar Working for Education

According to police, the vendor is an 18-year-old scholar at a private institution. She sells sampaguita to support her education.

“In fact, she is a scholar of a private institution, a smart kid, and is just trying to earn extra income for her school needs,” Madayag added.

The girl’s family has faced recent hardships, including the demolition of their home, as confirmed by barangay officials.

Viral Incident Sparks Outrage

In the viral video, the vendor, dressed in a school uniform, was seen arguing with a security guard who later grabbed and destroyed her garlands of sampaguita. When the vendor retaliated, the guard responded with physical aggression.

As a result, SM Megamall dismissed the security guard. An administrative investigation by the Philippine National Police Civil Security Group (PNP-CSG) is underway to assess potential liabilities of both the security guard and his agency.

Aid and Support

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided the vendor’s family with ₱20,000 in financial assistance to help them recover from their ordeal.

The incident has drawn public attention to the challenges faced by marginalized individuals striving to support their education and families.