A ROUTINE day of business permit processing in Mandaue City took a dramatic turn when security guards discovered a bag stuffed with nearly P1 million in cash and checks. Rather than keeping the windfall, the guards ensured every cent was returned to its rightful owner.
The incident happened on the afternoon of January 8, 2026, at the Mandaue City Sports Complex. Building Guard Renaldo Gerra, a member of the Civil City Security Unit (CCSU), was conducting a routine inspection at around 5:10 p.m. when he spotted an unattended "body bag" on a bench.
The complex was being used as a hub for the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO). As the day wound down and staff began to pack up, the bag sat alone in the quiet facility.
When the guards inspected the bag as part of their security protocol, they were stunned by what they found. Inside were bundles of P1,000, P500, P100, and P50 bills, along with several checks. The total value reached almost P1 million.
"I was shocked by how much money was inside," said building guard Dennis Mahilum. "That is why we confirmed it right away and immediately informed our head."
Knowing the area was still open to the public, Gerra and his team immediately moved the bag to the CCSU office to keep it safe.
The owner, a collector, eventually realized his mistake and rushed back to the complex. He explained that he had been carrying two bags and had set one down while signing documents and paying fees. He admitted he didn't expect to see the money again after leaving it behind.
Since the guards had no way of contacting him, they waited for him to return. Before handing over the small fortune, the guards followed strict CCSU protocols.
"I asked him for an ID and confirmed that the bag and its contents really belonged to him," Mahilum said.
By 6 p.m., the bag was returned with all its contents intact. The owner confirmed that the money belonged to his employer, not to him personally, making the guards' honesty even more vital.
For the guards, the decision to return the money was simple. They saw it as a core part of their responsibility to the public.
“This is really part of our duty as public servants," Mahilum said. "Whatever our job is, we do it properly and we do not do anything wrong.” (ABC)Honest security guards return nearly P1 million found at Mandaue Sports ComplexHonest security guards return nearly P1 million found at Mandaue Sports ComplexHonest security guards return nearly P1 million found at Mandaue Sports Complex