🔍 Janus Del Prado Criticizes Awra Briguela Over Alleged Offensive Behavior: A Call for Accountability Within the LGBTQIA+ Community

🧭 Introduction: When Public Figures Spark Public Debate

The power of influence is magnified in the age of social media. What might once have been private disagreements are now amplified into public controversies — especially when involving well-known personalities.

This week, actor Janus Del Prado publicly called out fellow artist Awra Briguela in a social media post that rapidly went viral. His comments touched on issues of respect, identity, and inclusion, alleging that Awra’s recent behavior has been “disrespectful” and even harmful to the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly in connection with an alleged incident involving a person with a disability.

In this article, we unpack what was said, how it was received, and why this conversation is far from simple.

📖 Chapter 1: Who Are the Key People Involved?

Janus Del Prado

A seasoned Filipino actor known for his work in both comedy and drama. Janus is vocal on social issues and regularly engages with fans through candid Facebook posts. He often speaks with a tone of cultural conservatism, favoring respectful behavior in both public and private spheres.

Awra Briguela

An openly LGBTQIA+ personality and performer, Awra first rose to fame as a child actor on FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano. Known for being unapologetically expressive, she has been increasingly vocal about gender identity issues, recently confirming the use of she/her pronouns and actively calling out misgendering.

📣 Chapter 2: What Triggered Janus’ Criticism?

In mid-July 2025, a video surfaced online allegedly showing Awra mocking or insulting an individual with a disability during a heated altercation in a public setting. While the clip was brief and without full context, it gained rapid traction on TikTok and Facebook.

Janus responded via a public Facebook post where he condemned the behavior, stating:

“You are doing too much to the point that you are hurting the gay community.”

He accused Awra of:

Displaying entitlement, rather than advocacy.
Disrespecting others, including vulnerable individuals.
Creating division instead of promoting unity and understanding.

📌 Chapter 3: The “Patawad” Culture vs. Public Callouts

In Filipino culture, humility and the ability to say “Patawad” (Forgive me) are seen as core virtues. Janus seemed to imply that Awra had crossed a line and needed to self-reflect.

He also addressed the growing discomfort he claims to see among members of the LGBTQIA+ community, who allegedly feel alienated by Awra’s representation.

“We fought for acceptance. Don’t make it harder by pushing people away.”

🔥 Chapter 4: What the Public Thinks — A Nation Divided

Pro-Janus View

Some netizens agree with Janus, claiming that:

Awra’s behavior is increasingly reckless or inappropriate.
The LGBTQIA+ community needs responsible representation.
Public figures must be held accountable for their words and actions.

Pro-Awra View

Supporters of Awra countered that:

The video lacked full context and may have been edited.
Janus’ tone was unnecessarily harsh, possibly masking deeper bias.
Calling out a member of the LGBTQIA+ community in public could undermine unity.

🧠 Chapter 5: The Role of Public Figures in Representing Marginalized Communities

Being visible in media means being scrutinized, especially when representing a marginalized group.

Awra’s defenders argue that she:

Is still growing emotionally, having risen to fame at a young age.
Faces constant pressure to represent LGBTQIA+ identity in a highly conservative society.
Deserves grace and dialogue, not condemnation.

But others, including Janus, argue that:

Representation comes with responsibility.
Advocating for equality should never come at the cost of mocking or belittling others — especially the disabled.

🌏 Chapter 6: International Echoes — A Global Issue?

Janus also referenced the “importation of Western pronoun culture”, expressing concern that Filipino values are being displaced.

“Look at what’s happening in the West. Gender confusion, social decay — do we want to bring that here?”

This statement stirred even more debate:

Some interpreted it as transphobic, arguing that gender identity is not a “trend” but a fundamental truth for many individuals.
Others echoed his caution, noting that every society adapts differently, and sudden shifts may cause confusion or backlash.

🧩 Chapter 7: Where Does the Truth Lie?

In controversies like this, the truth is often not black and white.

Issue
Janus’ View
Counterpoint

Behavior
Awra’s actions are harmful to LGBTQIA+ reputation
The incident may be taken out of context

Representation
Celebs must act responsibly
Celebs are human too, and can make mistakes

Cultural identity
Filipino norms are being eroded
Cultures evolve — inclusion isn’t erosion

👥 Chapter 8: LGBTQIA+ Voices Speak Up

Members of the LGBTQIA+ community offered mixed but thoughtful perspectives:

Some called Janus’ post “necessary tough love”, especially in the context of public respect.
Others feared it could fuel stereotyping, making life harder for trans and queer Filipinos trying to live authentically.

One advocate shared:

“Let’s not pretend Awra is perfect. But we must handle this with care. Public shaming rarely leads to growth.”

💡 Chapter 9: What Happens Next?

For Janus Del Prado:

His comments have reignited conversations around gender, behavior, and accountability.
Some call him brave; others believe he should reflect on how his message affects younger queer individuals.

For Awra Briguela:

No official statement has been made at the time of writing.
She continues to post content, possibly choosing to stay silent or respond through her art.
Public curiosity will likely push for a response, clarification, or even an apology — if deemed appropriate.

✅ Chapter 10: Key Takeaways

Public accountability matters, but tone and timing also do.
Representation is powerful — and complicated.
Allegations involving disrespect to vulnerable groups deserve investigation, but not instant condemnation.
Social media can either promote unity or ignite division — how we use it is critical.

📚 Related Articles and Sources

For further reading on the topic:

Janus del Prado to Awra: “You are hurting the gay community.” – PEP.ph
Awra Briguela’s Graduation and Pronoun Announcement – ABS-CBN
Filipino LGBTQ+ Voices: Representation and Responsibility – PhilStar
Video: Janus Del Prado Calls Out Awra – YouTube Short