Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro has raised concerns over a youth group that displayed a flag bearing a skull symbol during a protest in Mendiola, Manila, on Sunday, September 21, questioning the individuals and motives behind the group.

In an exclusive interview on DZRH’s Damdaming Bayan on Monday, Teodoro took note of a flag being waved by young people dressed in black during the protest in Mendiola.

“Tingnan niyo ‘yang bandera na ‘yan, nagu-uso po yung bandera na ‘yan ngayon. Yung may kalansay na bandera,” he said, pertaining the pirate flag.

“Ito po ay meron pong humuhubog dito at merong umi-impluwensya dito,” Teodoro emphasized, stating that individuals or groups are influencing and shaping the actions of these youths.

He also stressed the need to identify those who are encouraging, influencing, or supplying illegal drugs to them. He asserted that those individuals should be held responsible and subjected to strict punishment.

Moreover, the flag that drew the attention of the Defense Secretary was actually the Straw Hat Jolly Roger from the iconic manga and anime series “One Piece.” The flag symbolizes the fictional character Monkey D. Luffy’s fight for freedom.

Notably, the flag has become a global symbol of protest, having been spotted at rallies in various countries.