Security guard in ‘Sampaguita Girl’ incident apologizes

The security guard involved in the viral "Sampaguita Girl" video apologized after destroying the flower vendor's garlands during their altercation in December 2024.

In a “24 Oras” report on Monday, the guard admitted to the Philippine National Police that he lost his patience, leading him to drive the girl away and destroy her garlands.

The security agency revealed that the guard has not been terminated but is currently on off-detail, temporarily suspended from duty while an investigation is underway.

The agency announced plans to implement additional programs and training for their personnel to prevent similar incidents.

“Ang sa amin lang, sa sitwasyon na yun, kinausap na lang namin yung guard namin na sana wag na ulit mangyari yun. At saka, kung ano man ma-encounter, susundan na lang yung natin yung tinuturo sa mga traning,” said Marvin Lacanglacang, operations manager of Red Eye II Security and Services Inc.

(We spoke to the guard and advised him to ensure that such behavior does not happen again. We also emphasized the importance of adhering to the lessons taught during training in handling situations like these.)

The agency reiterated its commitment to improving the professionalism of its guards and ensuring incidents like this are avoided in the future. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/DVM, GMA Integrated News