Awra Briguela is fully embracing her new chapter as a senior high school student, brimming with excitement and confidence in this new phase of her life.
On October 18, 2024, Awra took to social media to share her thoughts on returning to school.
Read: Awra Briguela draws attention for Catriona Gray-looking photos
In her post, she expressed her intent to make the most out of her academic journey, writing, "here's to romanticizing uni life, late night study sessions, and endless cups of coffee. there's definitely so much more to life."
She also included a series of photos that captured her school experience—diligently working on assignments, sipping coffee during breaks, and wearing her school uniform with pride.
Just two weeks earlier, Awra hinted at her decision to resume her studies with the message, "And so she said: Let's begin again [emojis]," marking her fresh start.
Her uniform and ID cord revealed that she is enrolled at the University of the East (UE), a private university in Manila.
Awra, who rose to fame as a child star and transitioned into a successful teenage celebrity, took a break from her studies to focus on her blossoming career.
Juggling the demands of showbiz at such a young age meant putting her education on hold, but now, with her career thriving, she's happily back to continue her academic journey.
Read: Awra Briguela proud of dad earning his master's degree
UNIVERSITY OF THE EAST DEFENDS AWRA'S CHOICE OF UNIFORM
Despite strides toward inclusivity, the Philippines remains largely conservative, particularly in its views on the LGBTQIA+ community.
When Awra Briguela shared a reel celebrating her new role as a senior high schoolgirl, dressed in a uniform typically worn by female students, she faced backlash from critics who argued she should conform to the gender she was assigned at birth.
In response, the University of the East promptly issued a statement in support of Awra.
Read: Awra Briguela on homophobic insults on her two-piece photos: “Apaka daming perfect”
It read in full: "Everyone deserves a safe and inclusive environment-where no one is left behind or discriminated against, regardless of their identity. Recently, we've become aware of the backlash surrounding Awra Briguela's post that showed her choice of uniform.
"In this context, it is important to note that UE is committed to fostering an inclusive atmosphere, where LGBTQIA+ members are respected, and students are permitted to wear opposite-sex attire of their choice and uniforms, provided they have approval from the Student Affairs Office (SAO).
"Unfortunately, some of those who criticized Briguela seem unaware of this policy, as reflected in their negative reactions and comments.
"Nevertheless, a lack of awareness does not justify hateful comments, especially those attacking someone's appearance, gender identity, or self-expression.
"The University Student Council, the UE Manila Senior High School Central Student Council, and the UE Bully-Free Advocates and Empowered Students Support Group of UE Manila Peer Facilitators, will not tolerate such discrimination.
"We remain steadfast in our mission to create a safer, more inclusive space for ALL UE WARRIORS, regardless of gender. Our goal is to cultivate an environment where every student feels valued and free to express themselves without fear of judgment or harassment.
"This includes actively confronting discriminatory behavior and raising awareness about the importance of respect and inclusivity.
"Let us choose kindness and mutual respect, and strive to build a community where everyone feels safe being who they truly are. No one should be made to feel inferior because of their identity.
"Together, we can stand against discrimination and advocate for acceptance, inclusivity, and positive change."
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