Actor-politician Alfred Vargas and Yasmine Vargas shared another update regarding the bullying case involving their son, revealing that their family has decided to withdraw their children from the Sharknado Swimming Club following the controversy that recently became public.
Photos used in this article courtesy of Yasmine Vargas on Facebook and Karen Davila on Youtube
In a statement, Yasmine opened up about the emotional toll the situation has taken on their family.
“Over the past weeks, our family has gone through a difficult and painful situation involving our children,” she said.
The clarification came weeks after the couple publicly spoke about the alleged bullying incidents involving their son during swimming training sessions and competitions. Earlier this year, the couple formally filed a criminal complaint against the parents of the child accused of bullying their son. They also pursued 20 counts of cyberlibel against individuals allegedly involved in online harassment targeting their family.
The controversy first gained public attention after the Vargas family alleged that their son had repeatedly been pushed and held underwater during training sessions. In an earlier interview with veteran broadcaster Karen Davila, Yasmine revealed that what made the ordeal even more painful was that the alleged bully had supposedly been their son’s friend.
As discussions surrounding the issue spread online, Yasmine also addressed misconceptions involving their child’s school.
“Because certain discussions and assumptions have already begun circulating publicly, we would like to clarify, to be fair to our son’s school, that the incident being referred to did not happen within the school premises or during any school activity. The other party involved is also not enrolled in the same school as our son. The incident took place during swimming trainings and a competition outside the school setting,” she explained.
According to the couple, their main priority throughout the ordeal has been the safety and emotional well-being of their children. Yasmine previously admitted that she initially hesitated to speak publicly because she feared her children would become targets of criticism and online attacks. However, she said remaining silent became impossible after their family allegedly began receiving threats.
In her latest statement, Yasmine confirmed that the family has chosen to leave the swimming club entirely.
“After much reflection, many difficult conversations, and careful consideration as parents, our family has made the painful decision to withdraw our children from the Sharknado Swimming Club,” she shared.
She admitted the decision was heartbreaking for their family, especially since they initially hoped the matter could be resolved privately and peacefully.
“This was not an easy decision for us. We sincerely hoped matters could still be handled quietly, peacefully, and in a way that would protect the well-being of all the children involved. However, as parents, there comes a point when you must prioritize your children’s emotional welfare, peace of mind, and overall well-being above all else,” Yasmine added.
Despite everything that has happened, Yasmine still expressed gratitude toward the coaches who had supported their son as an athlete.
“Despite everything, we remain grateful to the coaches who dedicated their time and effort to helping our son grow as an athlete. There were still meaningful experiences, lessons, and memories that our family will always appreciate,” she said.
Meanwhile, Alfred previously emphasized that bullying can happen to anyone regardless of status or background, stressing that parents must never dismiss harmful behavior as mere childish play. He also encouraged families experiencing similar situations to speak up and protect their children.
For now, Yasmine said their family is focusing on recovery and healing.
“For now, our focus is on helping our children heal, protecting their welfare. We continue to hope that, in time, understanding, accountability, justice, and compassion will prevail for everyone involved,” she stated.
She ended her message by thanking those who have supported their family throughout the ordeal.
“To those who extended kindness, prayers, and support to our family during this difficult period, thank you sincerely. We deeply appreciate it.”
WATCH the couple’s interview with Karen Davila:
