A recent incident that occurred on August 8 inside Starbucks in Kalayaan has gone viral on social media.
The incident involves customers who were allegedly harassed by a man begging for money and were subsequently asked to leave by the branch manager.
Gino Mariano said he and his companion were in line to purchase coffee when a man entered the store and approached him, asking for money. When Mariano declined, the man suddenly began shouting and even pushed them.
Seeking help, Mariano turned to the barista, who was also the branch manager, for assistance.
However, instead of helping them, the branch manager, who was the only staff present in the counter, as there was no security guard, reportedly yelled at them and asked them to leave the premises.
In the video, Mariano can be heard saying, “I’m asking you to protect us,” to which the unnamed manager responded, “So you want us to protect you!”
Realizing they weren’t going to get any help, Mariano could only say, “Oh, my God.”
The video also captured Mariano’s disbelief as he says, “You want us to step outside? Are you for real? You didn’t even stop him.”
Netizens have reacted strongly to this, stating that it is Starbucks’ obligation to ensure the safety and well-being of their customers, especially since the branch in question did not have a security guard present to pacify the situation.
“Responsibilidad ng establishment na protektahan yong mga customer niya kapag nasa loob lahat ng mga customer. Kung nasa loob ng territory niya, responsibilidad na siguraduhin na safe yong mga tao na ansa paligid niya na naka dine in,” said TikTok user muybien00220.
Meanwhile, Starbucks Philippines issued an official statement acknowledging their awareness of the incident. They have already reached out to Mariano and the other individuals involved.
The company further stated that the safety of their customers is their top priority, and they will do everything possible to achieve this.
“This matter is being taken very seriously and currently under investigation. We sincerely apologize for this experience and will follow up closely with those involved to provide support,” Starbucks Philippines said.
