Sampaguita Girl Returns to Selling Flowers
SAMPAGUITA GIRL – The controversial flower vendor, whose real name is Jenny Garcia, was once again seen selling sampaguita flowers along Ortigas.
A concerned netizen recently shared a photo of her selling flowers again near the BSA Twin Towers in Ortigas, just a short distance from where she first went viral a few months ago. This time, Jenny was seen wearing a college uniform—a noticeable change from the school uniform that drew so much attention during her previous encounter.
Her return to street vending has sparked curiosity and concern among netizens, especially since she previously received help from social media influencers and support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Many are wondering why she’s back on the streets, while others have expressed sympathy and understanding for her ongoing situation.
Jenny first gained attention online in December after a video surfaced showing a heated argument between her and a mall security guard. In the video, the guard asked her to leave the area, explaining that vendors were not allowed. The situation escalated—leading to a physical altercation, with the guard reportedly destroying her flower garlands and Jenny reacting by hitting him with what remained. The guard was later dismissed, and the video stirred strong reactions online.
Adding to the controversy at the time was the fact that Jenny was wearing a high school uniform despite being older. It was later revealed that she is actually a 22-year-old college freshman studying medical technology. Her parents explained that she wears the uniform to appear younger and more approachable, which helps her sell more flowers to cover her tuition, transportation, and daily expenses.
In January, the dismissed guard submitted a counter-affidavit through his agency, Redeye Management, as part of the ongoing investigation. The agency issued a public apology, emphasized the importance of professionalism in handling such situations, and pledged to improve training focused on compassion and ethical conduct for all its personnel.