Kapamilya actor and multi-awarded artist John Arcilla has spoken out about a viral video showing a security guard destroying a young girl’s sampaguita garlands.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, drew public outrage and sparked a conversation about compassion and empathy.
In the video, the girl was seen selling sampaguita garlands when the security guard destroyed her products, leaving her visibly upset. Arcilla took to Instagram to share his thoughts, expressing both disappointment and frustration over the incident.
“Kung hindi miserable at hindi mahirap ang buhay ng bata, magtitinda kaya siya ng Sampaguita kung may iba siyang paraan ng pagkakakitaan? Wala naman siyang sinasaktang tao. Mahirap na nga ang buhay niya, papahirapin pa natin? Such a sad video to watch,” he wrote.
Arcilla defended the girl’s reaction, noting that her anger was understandable given the situation. “Nag hahanap buhay yung bata. Bakit kailangan wasakin yung tinda niya? Hindi ko masisi ang bata kung bakit nagalit. Bakit may mga Guard o taong ganito? Sana may kunsiderasyon,” he said.
The actor called for accountability, adding, “When we are in authority and we use it to mistreat someone we outrank, what kind of person are we? Sana ay mabigyan ng tamang leksiyon ang Guard.”
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Several other celebrities joined the discussion, including Derek Ramsay, who criticized bystanders for filming the incident rather than intervening.
“It’s sad that nobody interfered and made an effort to help pacify the situation. Mas priority pa ang mag video kesa tumulong. Mahirap mag comment sa ganitong mga video. Hindi natin alam ang buong storya. May mali talaga sa guard and I’m sure may mali din sa bata but mali din ang gumawa ng video kesa tumulong,” Ramsay shared.
In response to the backlash, SM Supermalls released an official statement addressing the incident. The mall operator confirmed that the security guard involved had been dismissed.
“We have called the attention of the security agency to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation. The Security Guard has been dismissed and will no longer be allowed to service any of our malls,” the statement read.
The video has sparked widespread condemnation and brought attention to the plight of street vendors, especially minors trying to make an honest living. Many netizens have called for greater compassion and understanding toward individuals in similar situations, urging authorities to ensure fair treatment for all.
