Disrespect Is Not Home: Fighting for Dignity Where We Live

I live in a residential condominium in Metro Manila called Allegra Garden Place by DMCI. Like many women and individuals who believe in dignity, peace, and the right to feel safe in one’s own space — I entered this community with hope.

But recently, I’ve experienced incidents that left me disturbed, hurt, and more importantly — reminded of the daily battles many still face within the walls of their own neighborhoods.

What happened was more than just a misunderstanding. It reflected something deeper — a lack of respect for diversity, personal boundaries, and the basic tenets of human rights. I encountered derogatory and discriminatory behavior that touched on:

• My right to privacy,
• My freedom of belief and religion,
• My right to live in a safe space free from harassment, as guaranteed by the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313) and
• Oral defamation under our Revised Penal Code (Art. 358).

I felt unsafe, unheard, and unseen.

Instead of immediately filing formal complaints, I chose to reach out to the Property Management Office (PMO). Not to point fingers — but to initiate dialogue. To educate, not alienate. Because I believe that real change begins with awareness.

Why This Story Matters

We often talk about women’s rights, gender equality, and safe spaces — but what do these look like in our everyday lives? In our condos? In the elevators we ride every day, or in the eyes of a security guard who may not know that staring too long is a form of harassment?

I reached out to my networks. To gender experts, professors, legal resource centers, and advocacy groups like PCW, CHR, Lila, and the UPOU Gender Center. I also wrote to UPOU Pahinungod, hoping we could spark a community awareness campaign that would reach not just the educated few — but everyone, from property management staff to residents.

Because building a community that is gender-sensitive, rights-based, and inclusive is not just the work of lawyers or NGOs — it’s our collective responsibility.

 Let’s make homes truly feel like home — not just for the privileged few, but for everyone.

Are you in a similar situation? Want to join hands or share resources? Let’s connect. Drop a comment, send a message, or collaborate with us. Together, we can reclaim our safe spaces — one conversation, one policy, one community at a time.