Intramuros Administration fires security agency over minor’s assault

The Intramuros Administration (IA) has initiated steps to terminate its contract with JSL Security Agency after two of its guards were arrested for the alleged assault of a 17-year-old boy along the Pasig River Esplanade.

The move follows a directive from Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, who ordered a full-scale investigation into the Sunday night incident. Domagoso stressed that private security personnel have no legal authority to police public streets or spaces.

“We are moving for the termination of the contract of the security agency,” IA Administrator Joan Padilla said Monday.

According to a police investigation, the incident occurred around 9:05 p.m. Sunday and left the minor with injuries. Responding personnel from the Tourist Police and the Intramuros Police Community Precinct arrested the two guards shortly after.

The suspects face complaints for violating Republic Act 7610, also known as the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

During a city government meeting Monday, Domagoso condemned the guards’ actions, stating that their jurisdiction is strictly limited to guarding private property.

“Guards should be guarding property; they’re not policing the streets. They’re not allowed,” Domagoso said.

“Even if you go to the PNP, when they get their license, they are not allowed to police the streets. Streets, alleys, boulevards, or any public places are under the PNP for the peace and order situation,” he added.

The mayor warned that allowing private guards to overstep their bounds would lead to “chaos in our streets” if left unpunished.