Woman beating 3-year-old boy in viral video arrested in Taguig

A 28-year-old woman was arrested in Taguig City on Monday after a viral video showed her beating a three-year-old boy, the Southern Police District (SPD) said.

In a statement released Monday evening, the SPD identified the suspect as alias "Carla."

At 12:30 a.m. on Monday in Barangay Western Bicutan, police said the suspect allegedly assaulted the three-year-old boy after an argument with the child's mother.

"Several concerned residents intervened during the altercation, but the suspect allegedly redirected her anger toward the minor victim and repeatedly struck the child, causing physical injuries," the SPD said.

The video of the incident reached barangay officials and city police personnel.

Authorities rescued the three-year-old boy and brought him to Taguig Pateros District Hospital for medical examination and treatment.

At 3 p.m. on the same day, Taguig police tracked down and arrested the suspect.

She is now in police custody and charges for violation of the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act are being prepared against her, the SPD said.

SPD director Police Brigadier General Glenn Oliver Cinco lauded the authorities' swift action.

"Hindi tayo magdadalawang-isip na kumilos laban sa sinumang mananakit ng bata. Mabilis nating tutugunan ang ganitong uri ng insidente upang mapanagot ang mga responsable at maprotektahan ang kapakanan ng ating mga kabataan," Cinco said.

(We will not hesitate to take action against anyone who harms children. We will respond swiftly to this type of incident to hold those responsible accountable and protect the welfare of our youth.)

— VDV, GMA News