Gender Roles Within the Philippines

     In the Philippines, men and women are heavily defined by their gender. From a young age, women begin to fill the less dominating roles of their mothers and grandmothers, which automatically places them into a less powerful role than men. From a young age, men are brought up to be like their fathers and grandfathers, giving them more power. Men are also brought up to be confident and strong individuals, while women are taught to be more meek, submissive, and a constant team player. The only limitation on male freedom  is men are given more rigorous rules in their schooling system. Both male and females must dress a certain way for school, but men are treated more harshly if they fail to obey this. In the Philippines, men and their families are responsible for the dowry for marriage. Women are considered so special alone, that they are considered the dowry all on their own. Overall, men are given decision making roles in the Philippines, and women must obey all orders from men in their family. This explains why many Filipino women today are immigrating to the United States for more choices and freedom within the family and economy.

Citations:

Fulgado, C. Q. (1992). The filipino women and family traditions.

Parrenas, R. S. (2001). Servants of globilization.