The Philippines has a culture where sexism is prominent due to social norms and traditions. However, the 1987 Constitution recognizes this issue and includes two prominent provisions to respect the roles of women. The first provision asserts that “The State recognizes the role of women in nation-building and shall ensure the fundamental equality before the law of women and men." Additionally, the Article XIII-Labor: Section 14 provided that "The state shall protect working women by providing safe and healthful working conditions taking into account their maternal functions, and such facilities and opportunities that will enhance their welfare and enable them to realize their full potential in the service of the nation" (Anonuevo 2000). Although the Constitution highlights these new laws, women were still not treated fairly in the workplace. Many women were tricked and sold into prostitution even though they were promised job opportunities.
In 1998, a severe incident occurred regarding the degradation of Filipina women. In this case, six Filipina women came to Germany in hopes of landing a well-paying job. However, this promise was misleading and these women found themselves sold into prostitution in Nigeria. Women who were promised jobs ended up as “lap dancers”. Their oblivion and ability to fall under clever manipulation caused them to be enveloped in sex-trafficking. Sex-trafficking is the systematic and transport of children and women in order to claim profit for sex. I believe this is absolutely ridiculous and truly unfair. Sex-trafficking benefits no one besides the government. This harmful act allows the government to avoid their obligations. This case presents the unfairness of gender roles of the Philippines. These women are perceived as objects, rather than actual human beings. In addition, mail-order brides are popular in this country. There are an estimated amount of 5,000 Filipina mail-order brides entering the United States and 20,000 in Australia. This system, yet again, portrays women as objects. They act as an item you can purchase online. This shows a discrepancy in gender roles because men have complete control of who they want to marry since they select these women via online websites. However, women are forced to be submissive and agree to this marriage as of 1998 (Monte 1999).
In a culture full of sexism, it is expected roles are divided up based on gender. Yeah, it might still be problematic, but it doesn’t seem like there is as much of mistreatment of women. In the Philippines, there is a division of labor. Men cultivate the land, but the entire family contributes to planting and maintaining the yard. Women are expected to work in gardens and care for the house and children. The main difference between today and history is the gender line between professions. In the past, women were expected to undertake household roles rather than pursue in a legitimate career. They were seen as housewives and if they decided to pursue a career, they would be teachers or nurses. However, the gender line between professions today is not as important. We see men working as teachers and nurses. In addition, women work as attorneys, doctors, and lawyers. The roles have shifted towards more equality. This significant change allows both genders to make their own decisions and not feel as limited. Although male children used to be more desired, female children are now welcomed to provide help in the home during the parents’ old age (The Philippines 2014).
Every country strives for gender equality. Although gender roles are still not completely equal, these roles have improved over the years. The sexist nature of the Filipino culture serves as a struggle women faced, but that definitely didn’t stop them. Men are typically seen as the “alpha-man” who can do everything better than a woman. However, “According to statistics, women have a higher literacy rate than men and more women than men reach and complete college education” (Fitzsimmons 2008). This just shows how hard work determines success, not primarily gender. I believe this demonstrates the same gender roles seen in the United States, especially in regards to professions.
Sources:
Anonuevo, C. (September 2000). An Overview of the Gender Situation in the Philippines. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://library.fes.de/pdf-files/bueros/philippinen/50069.pdf.
Fitzsimmons, G. (8 July 2008). Role of Women in Philippine Society Filipino Women and Feminism. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://www.lifepaths360.com/index.php/role-of-women-in-philippine-society-filipino-women-and-feminism-14247/
Monte, J. (25 February 1999). Across Borders: Sex trafficking of women. Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://www.hartford-hwp.com/archives/54a/235.html.
The Philippines (2014). Retrieved October 1, 2014, from http://www.everyculture.com/No-Sa/The-Philippines.html.