2 guards arrested after hurting 17-year-old in Manila

Two security guards were arrested in Manila after allegedly hurting a 17-year-old who was reprimanded for cycling in a prohibited area and reportedly resisted.

According to Saleema Refran’s report on 24 Oras on Monday, a video of the incident showed a woman attempting to intervene between the two security guards and the teenager along the Pasig River Esplanade.

One of the guards was seen hitting the teenager on the side and head and kicking him, while the other punched him in the face. The teenager was also seen returning punches.

The incident was reported to the Tourist Police, who arrested the two security guards.

The guards said they had reprimanded the teenager several times for biking in a prohibited area, but claimed he did not comply.

One guard alleged that before the chase—portions of which were captured on video—his companion tried to retrieve the teenager’s phone that had fallen to the ground, prompting the teenager to punch him.

The first guard added that when he approached the teenager, he was also struck, and admitted that his actions were driven by emotion.

Meanwhile, the teenager’s grandfather said his grandson is not confrontational and would normally avoid fights.

The two security guards underwent inquest proceedings at the Manila Prosecutor’s Office and may face charges of physical injuries.

The Intramuros Administration, for its part, said it will terminate its contract with the security agency that employed the guards involved.

GMA Integrated News is seeking comment from the security agency.—Mariel Celine Serquiña/MCG, GMA Integrated News