A constitutional law professor warns against potentially banning 'geng geng' teens from Bonifacio Global City, deeming it unconstitutional and harmful to free expression rights. The article argues that BGC, as private property, should not discriminate based on appearance or subculture. This risks setting a precedent applicable to other groups.
In an opinion piece published on February 9, 2026, in Rappler, John Molo, a constitutional law professor at the University of the Philippines and partner at Mosveldtt Law, addresses a student's question on the constitutionality of restricting 'geng geng' entry to Bonifacio Global City (BGC).
'Geng geng' refers to teenagers embracing a 'gangsta' subculture, with their own music, slang, and hiphop-inspired clothing. They are often linked to crime and violence, raising fears among residents who want to walk home without risk of robbery or harassment.
While Molo understands security needs—as the son of a soldier—he cautions against quick fixes. He notes, 'Cat-calling, violent behavior, and disruption in public spaces are punishable under existing laws.' BGC guards and local police have tools to handle incidents without banning an entire group.
As private property, BGC can set conditions, but targeting a whole citizen segment complicates matters. Molo explains, 'An owner’s right to deny access to his property acquires a different context when the target is an entire segment of citizens.' Courts may deem such private establishments to have a 'public character' if open to the public, like malls, utilities, and airports.
The core issue is enforcement: how would guards decide who looks 'geng geng' based on attire? He asks, 'What’s the difference between sandos worn by gym rats and those worn by geng gengs?' Clothing is a form of expression, and such a ban risks a slippery slope, potentially extending to religious attire like hijabs or turbans.
Molo recalls history: BGC once housed soldiers in the 1990s, displaced for progress. Now exclusive, it is maintained by workers like janitors and guards—possibly parents of 'geng geng' teens. He quotes Leni Robredo: 'Genuine development shouldn’t be based on models of exclusion.'
Finally, Molo worries about online amplification of the issue, which could be weaponized politically, fostering societal division.
