women's rights in the philippines essay brainly

Overcoming barriers to women’s work in the Philippines

Helle buchhave, nadia belhaj hassine belghith.

The current status of women in the Philippines is both a cause for optimism and a reason to accelerate efforts for promoting better access to jobs for all women. On several fronts, the Philippines is a best performer when it comes to gender equality in the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region and even globally. In the latest Global Gender Gap report, the Philippines occupies the 17th place, with 78.4% of its overall gender gap closed to date. This performance is the second best in the EAP region, after New Zealand. A key driver behind the progress has been the Philippine Magna Carta for Women, a landmark law signed nearly 13 years ago seeking to eliminate discrimination against women. 

With the impressive performance in closing key gender gaps, it is therefore striking that women’s labor force participation remains persistently low. At just 49%, the Philippines’ female labor force participation in 2019 was one of the lowest in the EAP region (regional average rate is 59%). In contrast, 76% of Filipino men were in the labor force, creating a massive gender gap. Progress towards closing the gap has been minimal and female labor force participation has remained roughly the same since 1990, with the gap shrinking by a mere 0.3 percentage points since 2015. 

Women’s low labor force participation represents a missed opportunity for economic growth and increased prosperity in the Philippines. An increase of women’s labor supply by a mere 0.5 percentage points per year would increase gross domestic product (GDP) per capita by about 6% by 2040 and almost 10% by 2050.  

In our recent report, Overcoming the Barriers to Women’s Economic Empowerment in the Philippines , we set out to better understand what is holding women back from the labor market and what is hindering the Philippines’ gain from the growth potential associated with women’s economic empowerment. We document that childcare and social norms about gender roles in the household play a critical role in holding back women’s participation in the labor market in the Philippines. The report adds to our research across the EAP region offering evidence on the linkages between constraints to women’s labor force participation and access to childcare services in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Solomon Islands, and Vietnam . 

What are the barriers to women’s labor force participation in the Philippines? We find four main answers:

Skills. Women who work are mostly concentrated in low skill positions (due to economic necessity) or high skill occupations (because of high rates of education). Women in low skill positions work to avoid falling further into poverty, whereas women in high skill occupations tend to select into the labor force with high earnings potential. Although many women work in private establishments or are self-employed, an important share (around 10%) of women are employed without pay in family-owned businesses and as domestic workers, occupations which tend to offer narrower avenues for skills development and career growth. Men on the other hand represent only 4% in these occupations. An important lesson from the COVID-19 lockdown was that more than a third of women (35%) who remained employed were able to work from home as compared to 19% of men. The pandemic has also opened some new working-from-home opportunities with industries such as business process outsourcing and e-commerce . 

Wage gap. Women earn more on average than men, but women in low skill positions earn much less than men. In families with both men and women being low skilled workers, the household income will suffer significantly less if the female engages in unpaid work than if the man does. In low skill positions, the daily wage is over 50% higher for men than for women, whereas in high skill occupations, the daily wage is about 20% higher for women than for men.  

Care responsibilities. The number of children reduces the likelihood of women’s employment. A large proportion of women are held back from productive employment opportunities by their family responsibilities and the concentration of women in high-skill positions declines considerably when they have young children. Having been married and having a young child aged 0 to 2 years old decreases the probability of women’s participation in the labor market by 7-14 percentage points. The presence of domestic help reduces this negative effect, reflecting how economic inequalities reinforce gender disparities.

Norms. Attitudes and beliefs about women’s roles and responsibilities decrease the probability of women’s engagement in the labor market by 14 to 22 percentage points (ISSP Family and Changing Gender Roles Survey and World Values Survey).  According to our 2021 nationally representative survey on women’s work and childcare, 75% of male and 80% of female respondents agree that a man’s job is to earn money and a woman’s job is to take care of the family and home. More than 70% of men and 76% of women believe that the emotional and psychosocial development skills of a preschool child suffers with a mother working outside the home (a belief that stands in contract to global research see for example Devercelli and Beaton-Day 2020). Moreover, willingness to use childcare services is limited, with over 95% of both men and women believing that childcare should be provided by family members.

What can the government do? We discussed policy recommendations at a recent roundtable between the World Bank, the Philippines Commission on Women, National Economic and Development Authority, the Department of Education, and Oxfam Philippines. Key outcomes were that findings highlight the need for policies and programs that increase female labor force participation in the Philippines by i) providing alternatives to childcare in the home; ii) promoting policies supporting flexible work arrangements, including work from home and e-commerce , such as amendment of the Telecommuting Act (Republic Act 11165); and iii) addressing gendered social norms that affect women’s participation in the labor market through media campaigns, behavioral and attitude change interventions that influence opinions about masculinity, gender roles, earlier childhood development, legislation and company policies that equally promotes parents to engage in care responsibilities. 

“We keep gender equality front and center in our work,” according to Ndiame Diop , the World Bank’s Country Director for the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand. The World Bank is committed to supporting the Philippines, and one of the priorities of the World Bank’s Philippines FY20-24 Country Gender Action Plan is to increase women’s access to paid labor.   

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The Role of Women in Philippine Society: Past and Present

• by Amiel Pineda
• May 14, 2024 May 15, 2024

Women in Philippine society have experienced a complex history of empowerment, suppression, and resilience.

During pre-colonial times, Filipino women held economic and spiritual power. For example, they engaged in trade and were respected as spiritual leaders within their communities.

However, Spanish colonization imposed patriarchal norms, confining women to domestic roles.

Despite this, women actively contributed during World War II and in the post-war period. For instance, they took part in the workforce, started businesses, and engaged in governance.

Today, women in the Philippines are breaking barriers in male-dominated fields, driving economic growth, and advocating for gender equality. Their contributions continue to shape the evolving landscape of Philippine society.

Key Takeaways

• Pre-colonial Philippines : Women in the past held economic power, managed resources, and were spiritual leaders.
• Example: Women controlled trade and agriculture, led rituals, and made important decisions in the community.
• Spanish colonization impact : Women’s roles were limited to domestic tasks and were undervalued.
• Example: Women were expected to focus on household duties and raising children, with limited rights and opportunities.
• Women in World War II : They provided crucial support through nursing, medical aid, and logistics during the conflict.
• Example: Women worked as nurses in hospitals, provided care to wounded soldiers, and aided in the resistance movement.
• Contemporary Filipino women : Engage in economic empowerment through microfinance, entrepreneurship, and skills development.
• Example: Women start small businesses, receive financial support, and enhance their abilities to contribute to the economy.
• Involvement in governance and advocacy : Women advocate for political quotas, influence laws, and promote gender equality.
• Example: Women campaign for equal representation in government, push for laws protecting women’s rights, and work towards gender parity in society.

Pre-Colonial Roots of Empowerment

In pre-colonial Philippines, women had significant economic power due to the matrilineal society where property and status were inherited through maternal lines. For example, women held authority in managing resources and making important decisions within their communities.

Female shamans, called ‘babaylan,’ had spiritual influence as healers and mediators in pre-colonial Philippine society. They were respected for their abilities to heal, communicate with spirits, and maintain social harmony. This empowered women to play crucial roles in resolving conflicts and maintaining community well-being.

Spanish Colonization and Women’s Roles

The impact of Spanish colonization on Philippine society led to a shift in women’s roles.

The introduction of a patriarchal system by the Spanish emphasized female domesticity, limiting women’s access to education and participation in public life. This restriction reinforced traditional gender roles, affecting women in the Philippines for generations.

For example, women were expected to focus on household duties and child-rearing, while men took on roles outside the home such as leadership positions in society.

Female Domesticity Expected

During the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, women’s roles were strictly confined to domestic duties. They were expected to focus on childcare and managing the household, limiting their opportunities for education, employment, and political involvement. This societal shift was a deliberate effort to suppress women’s autonomy and maintain a patriarchal society.

Women were expected to adhere to traditional homemaker stereotypes. This meant that their primary responsibilities revolved around domestic tasks and caregiving roles, reinforcing their subordination within the household. For example, women were expected to cook, clean, and care for children without much opportunity to pursue other interests or activities.

The emphasis on female domesticity devalued women’s work. Their contributions to the household economy were often seen as an extension of their natural caregiving instincts, rather than as valuable labor. This undervaluation further entrenched the idea that women’s roles were limited to the home and family sphere.

The imposition of patriarchal values by the Spanish colonizers had lasting effects on women’s social, economic, and political status. By restricting women to the domestic sphere, they perpetuated gender inequality and reinforced the dominance of men in society. This deliberate strategy aimed to maintain control over women and uphold the patriarchal order.

Restrictions on Education

Women in the Philippines during the Spanish colonization period faced deliberate restrictions on education. Spanish colonizers limited women’s access to education to maintain traditional gender roles.

This restricted women’s social mobility and kept them in domestic roles. Cultural norms reinforced these restrictions by emphasizing women’s place in the home.

Education was mostly available to wealthy families during this time. Women who did receive education were often taught by private tutors .

Exclusion from education limited women’s participation in economic and political development . These restrictions were a tool used to uphold a patriarchal society in the Philippines.

The impact of limited education for women during Spanish colonization is evident in the history of the Philippines. Equal access to education could have significantly altered the course of Philippine history .

Gender Roles Enforced

Spanish colonizers enforced strict gender roles in the Philippines, with women confined to domestic roles and men to public roles.

Women were expected to be caregivers, homemakers, and childbearers, while men were seen as breadwinners, providers, and public figures. These roles dictated societal expectations, portraying women as subservient, nurturing, and emotional, while men were viewed as strong, assertive, and rational.

For example, women were responsible for household chores and childcare, while men were in charge of decision-making and providing for the family.

This division of labor perpetuated the belief in male superiority, creating a patriarchal society.

The imposition of these gender roles during Spanish colonization had long-lasting effects on Philippine society, shaping social norms and family dynamics for generations.

American Era and Education Reform

The American Era and Education Reform in the Philippines led to a significant increase in women’s access to schools. This change resulted in a notable rise in female literacy rates.

For instance, during this period, women were able to pursue education in fields such as nursing, teaching, and administration, empowering them to take on more active roles in society.

New Education Opportunities

Women in the Philippines now have access to new educational opportunities that were previously unavailable.

STEM scholarships allow women to pursue careers in fields like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Online courses and digital literacy programs enable women to acquire new skills from home.

Academic mentorship and career counseling services help women make informed decisions about their education and career paths.

These opportunities empower women to compete on equal terms with men, breaking down barriers and challenging traditional gender roles for a more equitable society.

Women’s Access to Schools

Women’s access to schools in the American colonial period underwent significant changes.

Girls in urban areas saw increased enrollment due to the introduction of a public education system.

However, cultural barriers and social norms limited education for women in rural areas.

Families often prioritized boys’ education over girls’, and a lack of female teachers and role models affected girls’ motivation.

Despite challenges, the reforms laid the foundation for future generations of Filipino women to access education and overcome societal constraints.

Women in the Philippine Revolution

Women played a crucial role in the Philippine Revolution by contributing in various capacities such as organizing logistics and fighting on the front lines. They demonstrated bravery and skill in combat like Teresa Magbanua.

Women’s tactical intelligence was vital in outmaneuvering Spanish forces during guerrilla warfare. They also provided essential support services like nursing and communication.

Many women became revolutionary martyrs, highlighting their sacrifices and dedication. Overall, women’s multifaceted contributions were significant in shaping the nation’s history during this critical period.

The Suffrage Movement Takes Hold

The suffrage movement in the Philippines was sparked by Filipinas demanding equal rights, including the right to vote. Women such as Sofia de Veyra and Pura Villanueva Kalaw led the advocacy for social reform and women’s empowerment. They believed women’s participation in politics was crucial for real societal change.

In 1906, women’s clubs and organizations began emerging, focusing on education and charity work. For example, the establishment of the Women’s Club of Manila in 1921 was a significant milestone in women’s rights activism. In 1937, the Philippine Women’s National Council was founded to unite various women’s organizations and amplify calls for voting rights.

The suffrage movement gained momentum as women from diverse backgrounds united to fight for their rights. They argued that women’s involvement in the electoral process was vital for a more inclusive democracy. Their efforts led to the passing of the 1937 law granting women’s suffrage, a pivotal moment in Philippine history.

World War II and War Efforts

During World War II, Philippine women played vital roles in the war efforts. They contributed through nursing, guerrilla warfare, logistical support, and communication networks.

Nursing and medical aid : Women like Josefina Guerrero and Remedios Bueno provided critical care to wounded soldiers and civilians.

Guerrilla warfare : Captain Nieves Fernandez and Lieutenant Rowena Torres led guerrilla units, conducting sabotage and intelligence operations against Japanese forces.

Logistical support : Soledad Duterte and Maria Orosa supplied food, shelter, and resources to the resistance movement.

Communication networks : Maria Stewart and Pilar Hidalgo established and maintained vital communication links between resistance groups and the Allied forces.

These women’s bravery and determination were instrumental in the country’s liberation during World War II.

Post-War Reconstruction and Women

Women played a crucial role in the post-war reconstruction by contributing to the economy through increased workforce participation and entrepreneurial activities. This helped in rebuilding the nation after the devastation of the war. For example, women started businesses and took up jobs in various sectors, boosting the country’s recovery efforts.

Furthermore, women began to hold key government positions during this period, leading to a more inclusive and representative leadership. This shift towards gender diversity in government paved the way for a more balanced decision-making process and better representation of the population.

Women’s Economic Empowerment

Women’s economic empowerment was crucial in rebuilding the Philippine economy after the war. Their increased involvement in the workforce and entrepreneurship helped drive economic growth.

Initiatives for women’s economic empowerment included microfinance programs, entrepreneurship training, education and skills development opportunities, and supportive government policies.

For example, microfinance initiatives provided women with capital to start or expand businesses. Entrepreneurship training equipped them with necessary skills, while access to education improved their participation in economic activities. Government support through gender equality policies further encouraged women’s economic advancement.

These efforts not only enhanced women’s economic status but also significantly contributed to the overall economic development of the country.

Women in Government

Women’s participation in government post-war Philippines was crucial for the country’s reconstruction. They advocated for political quotas, ensuring their presence in key government positions. This resulted in women holding significant roles in the legislature, executive, and judiciary, gaining legislative power to influence policy decisions.

Through their involvement, women shaped laws and policies that boosted social and economic development, including gender-sensitive policies to address women’s and marginalized groups’ needs.

Women’s representation in government also improved transparency and accountability, leading to reforms targeting corruption and promoting good governance. By demonstrating leadership in public offices, women challenged gender norms, setting a path for future female leaders.

Martial Law and Feminist Resistance

During Marcos’ martial law in 1972, women’s groups led resistance efforts against the regime. The feminist movement persisted and even grew stronger under the authoritarian rule.

• Protests and rallies :

Women bravely organized and joined protests to oppose martial law and human rights violations.

• Example: Women risked personal safety to demand an end to oppressive rule.
• Underground networks :

Women established secret networks to offer shelter, food, and medical assistance to those targeted by the government.

• Example: Women provided crucial support to victims of state persecution.
• Feminist solidarity :

Women’s groups allied with other marginalized communities like labor unions and peasant organizations to amplify their demands.

• Example: Women joined forces with others to amplify their calls for justice and equality.
• Documenting state violence :

Women meticulously documented cases of state violence and disappearances, aiding in human rights investigations.

• Example: Women gathered evidence of government abuses for accountability purposes.

Women’s resilience and unity in the face of adversity showcased the enduring power of feminist resistance.

Modern-Day Challenges and Triumphs

Women in the Philippines face challenges such as gender stereotypes and online harassment.

Despite these obstacles, they thrive through economic empowerment and social media advocacy.

Women have excelled in entrepreneurship and leadership roles, gaining financial independence.

They actively use social media to raise awareness on gender-based violence and reproductive rights.

This active participation shapes the country’s economy and society positively.

Breaking Barriers in Male-Dominated Fields

Women in the Philippines are increasingly entering male-dominated fields like engineering, law, and medicine. They’re challenging gender norms and reshaping the professional landscape.

In STEM fields, women are making significant contributions in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. For example, Dr. Fe Del Mundo, a Filipino pediatrician, was the first woman admitted to Harvard Medical School.

More women are rising through corporate ranks, breaking glass ceilings, and securing top leadership positions previously dominated by men.

Women entrepreneurs are flourishing, starting their own businesses, boosting economic growth, and creating job opportunities for others. One notable example is Vicki Belo, a dermatologist who founded the Belo Medical Group, a leading skincare and aesthetic clinic in the Philippines.

Women are also actively participating in government and policy-making, advocating for gender equality and shaping the country’s future. Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is one such example, serving as the Philippines’ first female president from 2001 to 2010.

Overall, the Philippines is experiencing a transformative shift driven by women who are breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations.

How Have Women’s Roles in the Barangay Changed Throughout Philippine History?

Throughout Philippine history, the role of barangay has evolved significantly, impacting women’s roles. In ancient times, women were responsible for household and childcare duties. However, as the barangay system changed, women gained more prominence in leadership and decision-making, challenging traditional gender norms. Today, women in the barangay are actively engaged in various roles, contributing to community development.

Future Directions and Aspirations

Filipino women aim to increase their presence in male-dominated fields and strive for greater social, economic, and political empowerment.

In the future, Filipino women will continue to challenge traditional norms and push for gender parity in all aspects of society.

In education, the goal is to increase female enrollment in STEM fields through mentorship programs, scholarships, and career counseling. For example, programs like TechKabal in the Philippines provide mentorship and support for women pursuing careers in technology.

In the economy, efforts will focus on achieving gender parity in leadership positions through training and development programs and networking opportunities. For instance, the Filipina CEO Circle empowers women executives to excel in leadership roles.

In politics, the aim is to increase female representation in government through leadership training, campaign financing, and voter education. Organizations like She for She Philippines work towards empowering women to participate in politics.

Improving maternal and reproductive healthcare is a priority, with initiatives focusing on access to family planning services and reproductive health education. For instance, the Likhaan Center for Women’s Health provides comprehensive reproductive healthcare services to marginalized communities.

To promote sustainable development and environmental conservation, Filipino women engage in community-based initiatives and environmental education efforts. An example is the Women’s Environmental Network in the Philippines, which advocates for eco-friendly practices and conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did women’s roles in philippine society change over time.

Women’s roles in Philippine society have evolved over time due to changing social norms, leading to economic empowerment, shifts in family dynamics, and redefined positions. Traditional expectations have given way to women taking on more active roles in the workforce, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. For example, women are now found in various professions such as business, politics, and the arts, showcasing their capabilities and leadership skills.

The changing landscape has also affected family dynamics, with women playing a more prominent role in decision-making and providing for their families. In the past, women were primarily responsible for household duties, but today, many women share financial responsibilities with their partners or even serve as the primary breadwinners. This shift has led to more equitable partnerships within families, where both partners contribute to the overall well-being of the household.

Furthermore, women’s positions in society have been redefined, with more opportunities for education, career advancement, and leadership roles. Women now have access to higher education and are encouraged to pursue their passions and ambitions. As a result, there are more women in positions of power and influence, breaking traditional gender barriers and inspiring future generations of women to reach their full potential.

Were Filipino Women Always Vocal About Their Rights and Empowerment?

Filipino women historically weren’t always vocal about their rights and empowerment. Cultural norms and historical context limited their ability to express dissent or advocate for change. For example, during the Spanish colonization of the Philippines, women had restricted rights and were often marginalized in society. This made it challenging for them to speak out for their rights.

However, Filipino women have become increasingly vocal about their rights and empowerment in more recent times. With the rise of feminist movements and advocacy for gender equality, women in the Philippines have been actively voicing their concerns and fighting for their rights. For instance, Filipino women have been at the forefront of campaigns against gender-based violence and discrimination, showing a significant shift towards vocal empowerment.

Overall, while Filipino women faced limitations in the past, they are now more assertive in advocating for their rights and empowerment. Through various platforms and movements, they continue to make strides towards achieving gender equality and recognition in society.

Can Women Hold Positions of Power in the Philippine Government?

Yes, women in the Philippines can hold positions of power in the government. For example, Vice President Leni Robredo and Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno have both held significant government roles. Their appointments demonstrate the political empowerment of women in the Philippine government.

Are There Gender Quotas in Philippine Politics and Education?

Gender quotas are not implemented in Philippine politics or education. This means that there are no specific requirements or targets mandating a certain level of female representation in these sectors. In politics, this lack of quotas has resulted in a low proportion of women holding government positions. For instance, as of 2021, only around 28% of the members of the Philippine House of Representatives are women. In education, the absence of gender quotas means that there are no set guidelines ensuring equal opportunities for women in academic leadership roles. This can contribute to gender disparities in decision-making positions within educational institutions.

Do Modern Filipino Women Still Face Gender-Based Discrimination?

Modern Filipino women still face gender-based discrimination. This discrimination is often influenced by cultural stereotypes and can be seen in workplace harassment, which can hinder their career growth and maintain gender inequality.

For example, in some workplaces, women may be overlooked for promotions or paid less than their male counterparts for the same work. This discrimination can create barriers for women seeking to advance in their careers.

Women in Philippine society have faced a challenging journey towards empowerment. Throughout history, women in the Philippines have consistently pushed boundaries and defied expectations. For example, during the Spanish colonization period, some Filipinas actively participated in revolts against colonial rule, showcasing their bravery and leadership skills.

Today, Filipino women are making strides in traditionally male-dominated fields. In the realm of politics, notable figures like Corazon Aquino and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo have served as presidents of the Philippines, breaking the gender barrier in high political office. Moreover, in the field of economics, Filipino women are taking on roles as entrepreneurs and business leaders, contributing significantly to the country’s economic growth.

Despite these advancements, challenges to gender equality persist. Issues such as gender-based violence and unequal pay continue to hinder the full empowerment of women in Philippine society. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for creating a more inclusive and equitable future for Filipino women.