QUEZON CITY, Philippines, Feb. 10, 2026 — A content creator has gone viral after sharing a disturbing experience of harassment inside a grocery store, where a man allegedly followed him, called him “pogi,” and repeatedly sniffed him while he was shopping.

The incident was captured on video and quickly spread across social media platforms, sparking outrage among netizens who condemned the inappropriate behavior. In the footage, the man can be seen approaching the content creator, touching him, and leaning in to smell him, despite clear discomfort. 

“Kuya, bakit mo ako inaamoy? Ang creepy mo,” the victim can be heard saying in the clip, which has since garnered thousands of shares and comments.

According to reports, the harassment occurred while the content creator was filming a vlog inside the store. Witnesses said the man appeared to be amused by his own actions, even smiling as he called the victim “pogi.” 

The victim later posted about the incident, saying he felt violated and unsafe. “Hindi ito biro. Hindi ito nakakatawa. This is harassment,” he wrote, urging followers to be vigilant and to call out similar behavior.

The video has ignited discussions online about harassment in public spaces, with many netizens emphasizing that unwanted touching and sniffing constitute clear violations of personal boundaries. Advocacy groups have also weighed in, stressing the importance of educating the public about consent and respect.

Authorities have yet to confirm whether formal complaints have been filed, but legal experts note that such acts may fall under the Safe Spaces Act, which penalizes gender-based harassment in public places. The law covers unwanted comments, gestures, and physical contact that cause discomfort or intimidation.

As the clip continues to trend, the incident has become a rallying point for calls to strengthen enforcement of anti-harassment laws and to remind the public that “being called pogi” or subjected to unwanted physical attention is not a compliment but a violation of personal dignity.

Public Spaces Are Not Consent-Free Zones

Harassment in public places often thrives because it is dismissed as humor or flattery. Acts like unwanted touching and invasive behavior are treated as minor annoyances, even when they clearly cross personal boundaries and create fear.

This incident highlights how everyday spaces like grocery stores can become unsafe when social norms tolerate disrespect. When bystanders stay silent and establishments lack clear protocols, victims are left to defend themselves in real time, often while being filmed, mocked, or doubted.

If violations can happen in broad daylight without consequences, what message does that send about whose comfort matters in public?

 Image from Linbert Abarca