SM Megamall releases a statement regarding the video of a viral Sampaguita vendor and security guard.

VIRAL SAMPAGUITA VENDOR – The security guard in the viral video was dismissed from service and will not work in any of this company’s malls.

There’s a video circulating online that broke many hearts. In the video, a young female student was in front of a mall selling Sampaguita garlands. She was holding a box in one hand and the garlands in the other.

In the video circulating on various social media platforms, a security guard of the mall was apprehending the little girl. People online speculated that it must be in their protocol to not allow vendors to sell in front of their establishment, however, things escalated and became a bit messy.

The clip that followed showed the security guard pulling the garland violently from the little girl’s hand and tearing it apart. The little girl fought back and there was even a moment when he gestured kicking the small girl. She continued fighting back and hit the man taller than her with her garlands several times.

Many people online reacted to this. Some understood that it must be part of his job, however, some argued that a little compassion could go a long way.

After the video went viral, SM Megamalls released a statement. They regret what happened and sympathize with the little girl. The security guard involved in the incident was removed from service and as stated, he will no longer be allowed to work in any of their malls.

The company expressed strong conviction as they condemned the act committed against the female vendor.

The statement said:

We regret and sympathize with the young girl who experienced an unfortunate incident outside our mall.

As SM Supermalls always promotes inclusivity for all, we strongly condemn this act committed against her.