2 Groups of Youths Clash After Simbang Gabi Due to Simple Exchange of Stares
MANILA – Two groups of youths were involved in a street brawl following the early morning Simbang Gab due to a simple exchange of stares.
On December 16 and 17, 2025, an intense commotion happened along Quezon Boulevard in Sta. Cruz, Manila, after two groups of youths figured in a street brawl following the early morning Simbang Gabi.
The incident reportedly started with a simple exchange of stares. The staring incident quickly escalated into violence, alarming motorists and pedestrians who were passing through the busy area.
More than 20 young individuals, most of them minors, were involved in the incident. Around 5 a.m. on December 17, videos showed the youths chasing each other in the middle of the road without regard for moving vehicles.
The scene caused fear among bystanders, especially since the disturbance happened at a time when many people were heading home from church or on their way to work.
The authorities discovered that some of the youths were carrying bladed weapons. Barangay officials revealed that several suspects had been hiding sharp knives inside their umbrellas, making it difficult to detect that they were armed. Bottles were also thrown during the clash, adding to the danger in the area.
Video also captured a similar brawl involving the same groups on the previous day, December 16, at the same location. According to Barangay 307 officials, the meeting of the two groups appeared to have been planned.
“Noong unang Simbang Gabi, nag-ipon-ipon ang mga bata doon… nagsimula na sila na nagkatitigan, ’yun ang pinagmulan eh. Tapos hindi na nagtagal, nagrambol na sila doon,” Barangay 307 executive officer Venerando Jangalay said.
During the first Simbang Gabi, the youths reportedly gathered, exchanged hostile looks, and later broke out into a fight.
Police officers stationed near Plaza Miranda quickly responded to both incidents, preventing the situation from getting worse. No injuries were reported. Two youths were apprehended during the first brawl, while three more were caught during the second. All those involved were between 15 and 17 years old.
The minors are now under the care of the City Social Welfare and Development Office. Following the incidents, police and barangay officials tightened security and increased patrols around the church and nearby streets.
Since then, no further disturbances have been reported, allowing Simbang Gabi gatherings to continue peacefully.
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