THE Sawang Calero Police Station 6 held a dialogue with the City Government’s Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS) and barangay officials of Calamba after a video went viral on social media showing 12 minors beating up a 21-year-old person with disability.
The assault happened around 4 a.m. Saturday, August 9, 2025, in Sitio Mahayahay 1, Barangay Calamba, Cebu City, where the victim — a 21-year-old with a physical disability — was attacked.
Investigation revealed that the victim was a member of a known gang and had an encounter with 12 teenagers.
According to the minors, the incident began when the victim accused them of throwing stones at him, which angered him and prompted him to chase the group. However, the group returned and ganged up on the victim, beating him until he was bloodied, with the attack caught on video.
During the dialogue called by barangay officials, including those from Gender and Development, Sawang police, and DSWS led by Aldrin Zamora, the victim, the 12 minors accused of the assault, and their parents were present.
They discussed possible programs to be implemented for the minors involved, including the possibility of filing charges against them if necessary.
Parents were also reminded of the importance of guiding and monitoring their children to prevent such incidents from happening again.
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of Police Regional Office Central Visayas, stressed that parents have a huge responsibility to guide their children so they will not commit crimes.
“Ang ating mga anak ay repleksyon ng pagpapalaki at gabay na ating ibinibigay. Nawa’y magsilbing paalala ang insidenteng ito na dapat nating bantayan, kausapin, at turuan ang ating mga kabataan tungo sa tama at ligtas na pamumuhay,” said Maranan.
(Our children are a reflection of the upbringing and guidance we provide. May this incident serve as a reminder that we must watch over, talk to, and teach our youth to lead proper and safe lives.)
Maranan also urged the public to work together and immediately call their hotline, 911, if a crime occurs or urgent police assistance is needed.
Through this, he said, they can achieve a peaceful and orderly community with the cooperation of everyone. (AYB)