Minors Were Paid to Join Mendiola Riot, According to DILG
The Department of the Interior and Local Government reported that some minors were paid to join the riot in Mendiola protest.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla revealed that the clash in Mendiola, Manila on September 21, 2025 (Sunday), was not a legitimate protest but an organized disturbance. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla explained that a group had recruited minors to take part in the commotion, allegedly paying them P3,000 each to join.
According to initial findings, the minors were encouraged to stir chaos with the goal of creating tension and attempting to destabilize the government. Reports also mentioned that some of the participants even showed the money they received on social media, bragging about it after the incident.
The instructions given to the recruited individuals were alarming. They were allegedly told to push as close as possible to Malacañang Palace and, if possible, to set fires. These claims paint a disturbing picture of how easily vulnerable groups, particularly young people, can be used for unlawful activities in exchange for money.
Around 217 individuals were placed under review as the investigation goes. Out of this number, 95 are minors. Authorities are working to determine the accountability of those behind the recruitment and funding of the riot.
The government emphasized that the young participants are victims of manipulation and exploitation by those who organized the event.
“Mukhang lumalabas organized group… ang bayad nila sa mga bata ay 3,000 each. May mga videos pa kami na pinapakita nila mga pera nila at niyayabang sa social media,” Remulla said.
The incident shows the exploitation of minors for political or financial gain. Many believe this should serve as a wake-up call to strengthen safeguards that protect young people from being dragged into dangerous activities they may not fully understand.
“Hindi sila cause-oriented; money-oriented lang. Bayad lang kaya ang leadership at organization level nila, mababa lang,” he added.
In a previous post, UP student hurt during arrest in September 21 Manila protest
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