UP Student Allegedly Beaten by Arresting Cops During Manila Protest
A UP student was hurt after allegedly beaten by cops during an arrest during the protest in Mendiola last September 21, 2025.
Last Sunday, clashes broke out between demonstrators and police officers during the protest in the streets of Mendiola. Among those arrested was a University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman student who was allegedly beaten by authorities while being taken into custody.
In the video, young man identified as Mattheo Villanueva from the UP College of Arts and Letters appeared with his hands raised but was still dragged, struck, and kicked by several officers. The clip quickly spread, fueling concerns over the use of excessive force.
Villanueva was part of the UP Diliman delegation at the protest, serving as one of the security marshals. Student leaders confirmed that his family has already been informed, and that legal support along with a quick response team organized by the UP Student Council is assisting him.
The Manila Police District confirmed that inquest proceedings for Villanueva and other arrested individuals were ongoing at their headquarters. However, questions remain over the basis of his arrest and the manner in which he was handled by law enforcers.
Authorities maintain that the police only carried riot gear and were instructed to exercise maximum tolerance. Officials also denied that firearms or tear gas were used against the demonstrators.
Police instead pointed to a group of protesters who allegedly hurled molotov cocktails, escalating the situation.
The violent dispersal led to a large number of arrests. Police records show that 216 individuals were detained, including 89 minors. On the side of the authorities, at least 95 officers were reported injured.
As investigations continue, the incident has caught attention to how protests are managed and whether the rights of those detained are being respected.