Group of Minors Faces Backlash Over Involvement in Riot After Attending Simbang Gabi
A group of minors was involved in a riot in Sampaloc, Manila, right after attending Simbang Gabi.
The CCTV footage captured the incident along Lacson Avenue, initially showing the youths appearing to play. Suddenly, one of them threw a Molotov cocktail, prompting others to join by throwing objects.
Barangay officials reported that around 20 minors, aged 8 to 12, were involved in the disturbance. According to Barangay 411 Captain Andrew Concepcion, many of the youths were not from the area and came straight from Simbang Gabi. While no one was injured, several parked vehicles were hit by stones.
Some parents of the involved minors apologized to the barangay. However, one parent even suggested turning over their child to authorities, stating they could not afford to pay for the damages.
Residents have been affected by these incidents, as riots in the area reportedly happen almost daily. Local cleaner Mang Albert shared that he frequently deals with broken glass left behind after such altercations.
Barangay officers and police patrol the area regularly, but the teenagers time their actions when no one is around. Upon learning of the riot, the Manila Police District quickly responded and stationed additional officers to monitor the area.
Several of the minors have been turned over to the Manila Department of Social Welfare, while others were sent back to their parents.
Although the children cannot face legal charges, their parents may be held accountable under Manila City Ordinance No. 8243, also known as the Anti-Child Endangerment Act. Penalties include fines ranging from P2,000 to P5,000 and potential imprisonment from one to six months, depending on the child’s age.
Authorities remind parents to supervise their children to prevent further incidents and ensure community safety.
In another post, 3 minor teenagers suffer wounds during riot outside school
“’Wag na po natin hintayin na may mangyaring hindi maganda sa inyong mga anak di ba, or better yet, sa inyo po yan, sasampahan po namin kayo ng kaukulang parusa,” Concepcion said.
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