Isko Orders Probe of Teenager Mauling by 2 Security Guards

The Manila Police District presents security guards Gilbert Y. Pedemonte Mendez and Nilo Y. Amba Anub to Mayor Isko Moreno after their brutal assault on a 17-year-old boy.

Isko Orders Probe of Teenager Mauling by 2 Security Guards

By Bing Jabadan – TheNATIONWEEK.com | February 9, 2026

MANILA, Philippines – Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno has ordered an investigation into the brutal assault of a 17-year-old boy allegedly by two security guards.

The order was made following a presentation of video footage to Moreno showing the alleged attack.

The Manila Police District arrested Gilbert Y. Pedemonte Mendez, 38, and Nilo Y. Amba Anub, 28, both employed by JSL Security Agency.

The incident occurred on Feb. 8, 2026, at about 9:05 p.m. at the Riverside Plaza Mexico Esplanade in Intramuros, Manila.

An MPD report to Moreno, signed by Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Abad, showed the victim, a student identified as Khiean, allegedly being assaulted after a dispute arose over his use of a bicycle in the area.

The report states that Khiean was walking his bicycle from the Binondo–Intramuros Bridge and descending the stairs to Riverside Plaza Mexico Esplanade when the two guards flagged him down and prohibited him from cycling in the area.

“When the victim refused to comply, a heated argument ensued,” the report said.

The victim attempted to flee on his bicycle, prompting the suspects to chase and corner him.

“The suspects allegedly conspired and simultaneously assaulted the victim, resulting in physical injuries,” the report said.

The video footage, described by Moreno as “gruesome,” showed the two guards punching and kicking Khiean.

Responding officers from the Tourist Police Unit intervened and pacified the guards.

Khiean positively identified Mendez and Anub as his attackers, leading to their immediate arrest.

The two were turned over to the Intramuros Police Community Precinct for documentation.

The case was subsequently transferred to the Women and Children Concern Section (WCCS) for further investigation.

Khiean, accompanied by his cousin, was taken to the Metropolitan Medical Center for treatment.

Police SSg. Marichu Sibal of the WCCS is preparing a criminal complaint for physical injuries in relation to Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act, for referral to the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office for inquest proceedings.