Nine youths, including an 18-year-old suspect, were arrested after a viral street riot erupted at the corner of Herbosa and Magsaysay Streets in Tondo, Manila, before dawn on Monday, March 2.
A video circulating online showed young men running through the streets around 4:30 a.m., some wielding sticks and improvised weapons. Hours later, the same individuals were presented before Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso at City Hall.
The Manila Police District–Raxabago Police Station identified the 18-year-old suspect as Chris Adriano, alias “Jumong,” who was allegedly caught carrying a bladed weapon. He now faces charges of alarm and scandal and illegal possession of a deadly weapon.
Authorities noted Adriano’s prior involvement in a copper theft incident last month.
The eight other suspects, aged 13 to 16, were turned over to the Manila Department of Social Welfare for intervention and assessment.
City officials are also preparing to file charges against the minors’ parents for alleged negligence.
“There is a government in Manila,” Domagoso stressed, warning that parents may be held accountable under the law if found negligent in supervising their children.
The arrested youths were presented to the mayor by MPD–Raxabago Police Station personnel led by Lt. Col. Ronald de Leon.
Police said the investigation is ongoing. (Diann Calucin)
