A trending online challenge called the “Money Hunt Challenge” has sparked controversy after participants ended up in physical scuffles while competing for hidden cash, raising concerns about safety and exploitation.

MANILA, Philippines — February 4, 2026 — What began as a viral content trend by vloggers aiming to attract views and followers has now drawn criticism after several participants were injured during a “Money Hunt Challenge.” The activity, which involves hiding cash in public areas and encouraging people to race to find it, has reportedly escalated into fights among contestants.

Videos circulating online show groups of people running, shoving, and even hitting each other in their desperation to grab the money. In some cases, the challenge caused public disturbances, with bystanders caught in the chaos. While creators claim the stunt is meant to “help the needy,” critics argue that it exploits poverty and desperation for entertainment.

Sociologists have warned that the trend creates a dangerous power imbalance, normalizing the struggle of vulnerable individuals for clout-driven content. “It’s not just about giving money. It’s about turning poverty into a spectacle,” one expert noted, stressing that such challenges risk demeaning participants rather than empowering them.

Authorities have also expressed concern, saying these uncoordinated events pose risks of injuries and public disorder. Police reminded vloggers that organizing activities that endanger participants or disrupt public peace could lead to legal consequences.

The controversy has sparked heated debate online, with some netizens defending the challenge as a creative way to share blessings, while others condemned it as irresponsible content-making. “Totoo nga bang layon nitong makatulong o pang-clout lang?” one commentator asked, echoing the growing skepticism about the true intent behind the trend.

As the issue continues to trend, calls are mounting for stricter regulation of online content that involves public participation, especially when safety is at risk. The “Money Hunt Challenge” now stands as a cautionary tale of how viral stunts can quickly spiral out of control, blurring the line between entertainment and exploitation.

Public Safety Isn’t a Clickbait Prop

Public spaces are built for shared use, not sudden chaos engineered for views. Viral stunts that invite crowds to compete for money turn sidewalks into arenas, where bystanders become collateral participants in someone else’s content strategy.

The real issue is not creativity but control. Without permits, crowd management, or accountability, these challenges expose people to injury while shifting responsibility onto those who get hurt. Enforcement struggles to keep pace with events designed to appear spontaneous.

If online fame can justify real-world risk, how long can public safety remain an afterthought in the race for clicks?