Awra Briguela (Instagram)
Content creator Awra Briguela is pushing back against derogatory and allegedly transphobic remarks made by an individual reported to be a professor at the Universidad de Manila.
The issue began after the supposed teacher allegedly posted a malicious comment on Awra’s social media post, sparking online backlash.
Awra then addressed the matter on social media, publicly calling out the professor and stressing the responsibility of educators to uphold professionalism and respect.
“As a professor, you are expected to uphold professionalism, respect, and basic human decency. Educators should serve as role models and create safe spaces for students, not contribute to online bullying, humiliation, and discrimination. What he did was completely unacceptable and disappointing coming from someone in a position of authority,” Awra wrote.
Following her statement, Awra also met with officials from the Universidad de Manila and the Youth Development and Welfare Bureau to formally raise her concerns.
Awra shared a photo from her visit to the office, explaining her decision to speak up.
“I chose to speak up and take action because what happened was not just a simple misunderstanding,” she said.
She added, “It was discrimination, and staying silent about it would only allow this kind of behavior to continue.”
Awra stressed that her goal was accountability not only for herself, but for other students who may have faced similar treatment.
“I wanted accountability, not only for myself, but also for every student who has experienced the same treatment, or even worse, and felt too afraid to speak out,” she said.
She also emphasized that schools should be safe spaces for all students.
“No student should ever feel humiliated, invalidated, or discriminated against inside an institution that is supposed to be a safe space for learning and growth,” Awra said.
Calling for responsibility from educators, she added: “This is not normal, and it should never be normalized especially when it comes from people who are expected to guide, educate, and protect students.”
Awra thanked the Youth Development and Welfare Bureau and university officials for their response.
“I am deeply thankful to the Youth Development and Welfare Bureau for listening, acknowledging this issue, and extending their assistance,” she said.
“I also want to thank the School President of Universidad de Manila for taking this matter seriously and allowing conversations about accountability and inclusivity to happen.”
She clarified that her action was not about conflict but advocacy.
“This step was never about creating drama or conflict. It was about standing up for myself, my dignity, and for those who still do not have the courage, platform, or voice to defend themselves,” she said.
Awra ended with a message for others facing similar situations:
“I hope this becomes a reminder that discrimination in any form has consequences, and that every student deserves respect regardless of gender identity, expression, or appearance.”
“Education should be a place of safety, respect, and equality never fear, shame, or discrimination.”
“And to those who have experienced the same situation, or even worse, please know that your voice matters too.”
“Feel free to directly raise your concerns and complaints to the Office of the President. The President is all ears and willing to listen to every student who seeks justice, accountability, and a safe environment within the university.”
