Transgender Woman Claims She Was Denied Access to Women’s Restroom at Iloilo Mall

Iloilo City – A recent incident at a shopping center in Iloilo City has sparked online discussion after a transgender woman said she was barred from using the women’s restroom, leading to feelings of humiliation and discrimination.

Ayumi Nicole, the woman involved, shared her experience on social media, describing how a female janitor stopped her from entering the women’s restroom at Merry Mart on August 19, 2025. The janitor reportedly called a security guard to the scene, escalating the situation and causing public embarrassment for Ayumi.

Video Captures Part of the Incident

In a video posted by Ayumi, she is seen outside the restroom recording the janitor along with a male security guard inside the men’s restroom. It is unclear why both were inside the men’s restroom during the video. It is possible that Ayumi followed the janitor after the initial incident to confront her.

Ayumi’s Statement and Complaint
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Ayumi identifies herself as a woman and part of the LGBTQ community. She said the experience was degrading and deeply hurtful.

She also wrote a formal complaint addressed to the management of the shopping center:

“I am writing to formally raise a serious complaint about discrimination I experienced at Merry Mart, Iloilo City, which left me traumatized and humiliated. On August 19, 2025, I tried to use the women’s restroom at your establishment, but the janitor stopped me and treated me as if I had no right to be there. To my shock, she called a security guard, escalating the situation unnecessarily and subjecting me to public shame.”

Ayumi emphasized that she grew up in Iloilo and felt betrayed by the incident. She cited Iloilo City’s Anti-Discrimination Ordinance No. 2018-090, which prohibits discrimination based on gender identity, and called on the mall to take action on her complaint.

Response from Iloilo City LGBTQ+ Affairs Office

The Iloilo City LGBTQ+ Affairs Office issued a statement on Facebook condemning the treatment:

“This kind of behavior is unacceptable. Iloilo City prides itself on being a safe and inclusive place for people of all gender identities. Incidents like this undermine our collective efforts to uphold dignity, respect, and equal rights.”

The office urged all establishments to respect the rights of every individual and to ensure that restrooms, workplaces, schools, and public spaces remain safe and respectful.

They also expressed readiness to pursue legal action to ensure justice and stronger protections for the community.
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Mall Management Has Not Yet Responded

As of now, Merry Mart has not released an official statement regarding the incident. Media outlets remain open to hearing their side of the story.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with diverse gender identities in accessing public facilities without discrimination. Despite existing laws designed to protect their rights, cases like this remind us of the need for continued education and enforcement to create truly inclusive spaces for all.