TV personality and comedian Awra Briguela publicly called out a professor from Universidad de Manila after allegedly receiving a degrading and transphobic comment on social media.
In a lengthy statement posted online, Awra — whose real name is Mcneal Briguela — expressed disappointment over the alleged remark “babaeng may burat,” which she described as disrespectful, humiliating, and discriminatory.
According to Awra, the situation became more upsetting because the comment allegedly came from an educator who is expected to uphold professionalism, respect, and inclusivity.
“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,” Awra stated.
“What he did was completely unacceptable and disappointing coming from someone in a position of authority,” she added.
Awra also revealed that several individuals, including students, allegedly reached out to her privately to share their own concerns and negative experiences involving the same professor.
“What makes this even more concerning is that many people, including students, have messaged me sharing their own negative experiences and concerns regarding his behavior. This shows that this may not be an isolated incident,” she said.
Because of this, Awra Briguela shared that she is considering filing a formal complaint before the administration of Universidad de Manila and gathering statements from other individuals who may have allegedly experienced similar treatment.
“Accountability is important, especially for people entrusted to educate and influence students,” Awra stressed.
In the comment section of her post, the actress further encouraged students and other individuals to privately message her if they experienced alleged discrimination, humiliation, bullying, or inappropriate behavior involving the professor.
“This is not about hate or revenge — this is about accountability, professionalism, and making sure that students are treated with dignity and respect,” she explained.
Awra also emphasized that respect should not depend on gender identity, appearance, or personal beliefs.
“Everyone deserves dignity, and no professor should use their platform to publicly shame or degrade another person,” she added.
As of writing, neither Universidad de Manila nor the professor involved has released an official statement regarding the issue.
The controversy emerged weeks after Isko Moreno Domagoso and the Department of Tourism, Culture and Arts of Manila reaffirmed Manila’s commitment to inclusivity and LGBTQIA+ safe spaces during the announcement of the 2026 Manila Summer Pride Parade.
