College student mugged in Lawton underpass, suspect arrested
Mayor Isko Moreno consoles third-year college student Mark Vincent at Manila City Hall after authorities arrested the suspect who snatched his iPhone 16 and necklace in the Lawton underpass. The incident, which left the student in tears, sparked public outrage after going viral on social media (Photo courtesy of Manila PIO)
A third-year college student fell victim to a violent snatching incident at the Lawton underpass on his way home to Quezon City.
The suspect, who posed as a beggar asking for spare change, has since been arrested and presented to the media by Manila officials.
According to reports, the victim, identified as Mark Vincent, was walking through the Lawton underpass when the suspect, later identified as Bryan Capillos, also known by the alias “Tanda Bakla,” approached him under the guise of begging for alms.
Moments later, Capillos suddenly snatched the victim's iPhone 16 and a necklace before fleeing the scene.
A video of the aftermath showed the victim in tears, visibly shaken and distraught, which quickly went viral on social media.
The incident drew widespread outrage from netizens, many of whom expressed sympathy for the young student and frustration over the recurring safety issues in public spaces, such as underpasses.
Following swift action by local authorities, Capillos was arrested and presented to the media at Manila City Hall by Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso.
The mayor assured the public that efforts are being doubled to ensure safety in pedestrian areas, especially those with a history of similar incidents.
“We do our best for the peace and order” Mayor Domagoso said during the media presentation.
Recovered from the suspect were the stolen phone and necklace, both of which are set to be returned to the victim.
The Manila Police District has urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious behavior, especially in crowded or poorly lit areas.
Capillos is currently detained and facing charges of theft, as well as possibly other related offenses.