The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the Sampaguita Girl incident, which involved a heated exchange between a young flower vendor and a security guard in December 2024. The Civil Security Group (CSG) confirmed on Monday that representatives from the agency, along with the security guard involved, have attended the probe.
According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Eudisan Gultiano, public information officer of the CSG, the Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (SOSIA) is conducting the inquiry. “We are waiting for SOSIA’s official report, but initial updates confirm that the representatives were present,” she told reporters.
What was the ‘Sampaguita Girl’ incident?
The altercation, recorded on video and widely shared online, shows a security guard grabbing and destroying flower garlands sold by a young vendor. In response, the vendor struck the guard with the damaged garlands, which led to a heated exchange between the two.
SOSIA has launched an administrative investigation to assess the potential liabilities of the guard and the agency. While the guard declined to speak with the media, citing privacy, authorities confirmed his dismissal from his role after the incident.
Did Sampaguita Girl’s family pursue legal action?
Despite the attention the incident has garnered, the family of the Sampaguita vendor has opted not to file charges against the guard. Joel, the vendor’s father, expressed understanding for the guard’s situation, suggesting he might also be struggling financially. “We won’t pursue legal action because we empathize with him,” Joel shared during an interview.
The vendor’s mother, Judith, addressed speculation online, clarifying that her daughters wear public high school uniforms to avoid penalties from authorities targeting illegal street vendors. She explained that both daughters, scholars pursuing medical technology degrees, sell garlands to support their educational expenses.
“My daughters are not involved in any syndicates,” Judith stated firmly. “I always remind them to prioritize their studies before going out to sell flowers.”
Security guard’s agency issues public apology
Redeye Management, the security agency employing the guard, has apologized for the incident. The agency stated that it is cooperating fully with the investigation and is committed to holding those involved accountable.
“We deeply regret the behavior displayed in the video. It does not reflect the standards we uphold,” the agency said in a statement. They emphasized the importance of de-escalation in conflict situations and pledged to reinforce training among their personnel.
Redeye also repeated their dedication to promoting empathy and professionalism in the workplace. They said the intent is to prevent similar incidents in the future.
What Happens Next?
The CSG confirmed that SOSIA has directed both the security agency and the guard to provide affidavits and other required documents. On January 24, the security guard submitted a counter-affidavit related to the incident.
In the meantime, the CSG reminded all private security professionals to adhere to ethical standards and maintain professionalism in all interactions.
This incident has ignited public discussion about the treatment of street vendors and the responsibilities of private security personnel. As the investigation continues, authorities stress the need for all parties to act with compassion and accountability.
