The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided P20,000 in initial assistance to 22-year-old Jeny, a “sampaguita” vendor who was mistakenly identified as a minor after wearing an outfit that resembled a grade school uniform during a viral incident with a mall security guard.
On the instructions of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao visited Jeny’s family on Friday, Jan. 17, to hand over the financial assistance to her mother, Judith.
Dumlao informed Judith that a case manager would return to conduct a more thorough assessment and determine if additional support could be provided, including possible access to livelihood programs.
During the initial interview with the agency’s social worker, Judith revealed that their household had been a former beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) but had graduated from the program, as their youngest child is now 19 years old.
It was during this interview that Judith also shared that Jeny is a first-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology.
She explained that the family relies on the income from selling sampaguita after Jeny’s classes to cover her transportation and school expenses.
Judith also clarified that she is the one who makes the flowers, while her children and husband, Joel, handle the selling.
The viral incident occurred in December 2024, just before Christmas, when Jeny was approached by a security guard in front of the mall, seemingly asking her not to sell near the entrance, as it could obstruct access.
The situation quickly escalated when the guard allegedly kicked her, leading to an outcry on social media. As a result, the guard was dismissed by mall management.
Many netizens initially assumed she was much younger due to her attire, which resembled a grade school uniform, further fueling the controversy.
However, it was later confirmed that Jeny is 22 years old and a college student.
Despite the viral attention, Jeny’s family has decided not to pursue any legal action against the security guard involved in the incident.