What was supposed to be a fun jam session with famous and local artists at a free concert in Taytay, Rizal, turned into a riot among the youth attendees, leaving one person injured, on Saturday, March 22.
Videos online showed that while the artists were performing on stage in Barangay San Juan, chaos suddenly erupted among the concertgoers, mostly young men who were seen fighting, chasing each other, throwing plastic barriers, performing flying kicks, and tossing bottles.
According to the Taytay Municipal Police Station (Taytay MPS), it was initially seen as a normal gathering with concertgoers enjoying the show. However, when people started shouting and running, the police immediately intervened to stop the chaos.
It also clarified that police officers were already stationed throughout the concert grounds from 5 p.m. until the event ended at 1 a.m. on Sunday to ensure the safety of the attendees.
They are now investigating the incident with the help of one of the victims to identify the others who were involved in the melee.
According to the victim, identified only as “Jeric,” he and his four friends were enjoying the concert when they were stopped by a group of men before they could reach the front of the stage.
He added that the group suddenly threw a plastic barrier at them, prompting them to throw it back in defense.
Authorities said that when the chaos stopped, everyone ran off, leaving Jeric behind. He was then attacked and beaten by the group.
Other concertgoers immediately helped him and took him to the rescue team in the area where his wounds were treated.
Meanwhile, authorities reminded the youth to avoid being reckless and provoking fights that may lead to harm, death, and fear, especially in public places.
Taytay MPS Chief of Police Lt. Col. Marlo N. Solero assured that those involved in the incident will be held accountable.
He added that the police will continue to provide updates on the incident.