Towards Inclusive
Progress: Championing
Gender Equality in the
Philippines
Submitted by:
Obongen, Ralph Joseph A.
3rd Year
1st Semester, AY 2024-2025
Ms. Joan Elizabeth G. Ibay-Pillora
(December 26, 2024)
The Philippines has made significant progress in gender equality over the years
but a number of obstacles still stand in the way of the countrys progress toward equity
and inclusivity. In addition to the LGBTQ+ community's advancements in advocacy and
public awareness women now have more access to education leadership positions and
political representation. But important problems like workplace discrimination gender-
based violence and social prejudice still affect people of all sexes and sexual
orientations. According to a 2017 survey conducted by the Philippine Statistics Authority
for example one in four Filipino women between the ages of 15 and 49 have been the
victim of physical emotional or sexual abuse at the hands of their partner (Philippine
Statistics Authority 2017). According to Human Rights Watch (2022) LGBTQ+ people
frequently experience discrimination during the hiring process and encounter obstacles
to equal treatment under current laws. The Philippines has advanced significantly in
certain areas in spite of these obstacles. Improvements in gender equality especially in
the areas of health and education are reflected in the nations ranking of 16th in the
world in the World Economic Forums 2020 Global Gender Gap Report (World Economic
Forum 2020). But issues with political and economic empowerment still exist
highlighting the necessity of ongoing lobbying and structural changes. While gender-
sensitive laws have been passed their efficacy is limited by inconsistent enforcement
according to a 2021 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report (UNDP
2021). These persistent problems limit many peoples opportunities and sustain
inequality which impedes the countrys development. This essay examines the state of
gender equality today the changes society must make to attain it and the part that each
person can play in furthering this goal.
A society that values diversity equity and respect for one another is what we
need to envision in order to create one that is just and inclusive. In order to realize this
goal gender equality must be promoted because it guarantees that all people regardless
of gender or sexual orientation can fully engage in the development of society. An
inclusive workplace culture can be promoted for instance by implementing gender-
sensitive policies that address pay disparities and provide safe spaces for workers. The
Philippines ranks 16th in the world for gender equality according to the 2020 World
Economic Forums Global Gender Gap Report which highlights both areas that have
improved and those that still require work especially in the areas of political and
economic empowerment. To effectively address these disparities the Philippine
Commission on Women (PCW) stresses the significance of mainstreaming gender
equality in governance and policy-making (PCW 2022). A socially conscious citizenry
depends on the development of fundamental values like empathy justice and respect all
of which are fostered by studying gender equality. The development of these values is
greatly aided by educational programs. For example including gender studies in school
curricula can dispel misconceptions and advance an understanding society. Movements
from the past and present emphasize educations capacity to change lives. The Sexual
Orientation and Gender Identity Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bills continuous support
serves as an example of how education and awareness can spur social and political
change. The significance of tackling systemic injustices through educated and
coordinated action is reflected in this bill which aims to shield people from
discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity (Amnesty
International 2021). Campaigns for public awareness have also played a significant role
in changing how society views gender and sexuality. The significance of establishing
harassment-free environments is emphasized by initiatives like the implementation of
the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313). These initiatives show that gender equality is a social
issue that calls for participation and responsibility from all members of society not just
women or LGBTQ+ people. Society can progressively destroy stereotypes and enable
marginalized groups to fully engage in community life by means of these campaigns.
According to a UNESCO (2021) study community-based campaigns significantly influence
public opinion and promote inclusivity.
A multifaceted strategy including advocacy education and individual action is
required to achieve gender equality. In my capacity as a student I can help by
encouraging inclusivity in school organizations and increasing awareness through
educational initiatives. For example holding workshops on gender sensitivity can help
debunk myths and promote tolerance for differences. The message of equality can also
be spread by using social media platforms to exchange resources and have deep
conversations. Social media has shown itself to be a potent advocacy tool connecting
like-minded people who support gender equality and reaching larger audiences. It is
essential for members of society to support laws and programs that safeguard
underprivileged groups. This entails supporting legislation like the SOGIE Equality Bill
and taking part in neighborhood initiatives to combat prejudice and discrimination. One
practical way to help people impacted by inequality is to volunteer with groups that
support gender rights. Furthermore confronting prejudiced behaviors and viewpoints in
our close social circles can have a cascading effect progressively altering social norms.
Through cultivating compassion and understanding within our individual networks we
can support a broader cultural movement toward equality. According to Asian
Development Bank (2020) studies the most long-lasting results in resolving gender
disparities come from a combination of national policy support and grassroots
initiatives. When combined these behaviors can help create a society in which all people
irrespective of gender or sexual orientation feel respected and empowered to realize
their full potential. Not only is achieving gender equality morally required but it is also
necessary for social harmony and sustainable development. Societies that place a high
priority on gender equality frequently see greater levels of social cohesion economic
growth and innovation highlighting the wide-ranging advantages of inclusivity. The
economic benefits of inclusivity are demonstrated by the McKinsey Global Institute
(2018) which projects that improving gender equality in the Asia-Pacific region could
increase regions yearly GDP by $4. 05 trillion by 2025.
Points to Ponder
What steps can be taken to ensure the effective implementation of gender-equality laws
in the Philippines?
How can educational institutions play a more proactive role in promoting gender
equality?
What measures are necessary to address deeply rooted cultural and societal biases
against the LGBTQ+ community?
How can individuals balance cultural traditions with the need for progressive gender-
equality initiatives?
What role does media play in shaping public perceptions of gender and sexuality?
REFERENCES:
Amnesty International. (2021). The State of the SOGIE Equality Bill in the Philippines.
[Link]
Asian Development Bank. (2020). Gender Equality and Social Inclusion in Asia.
[Link]
Human Rights Watch. (2022). Philippines: LGBT Rights. [Link]
McKinsey Global Institute. (2018). The Power of Parity: Advancing Gender Equality in
Asia Pacific. [Link]
Philippine Commission on Women. (2022). Gender Mainstreaming Initiatives in
Governance. [Link]
Philippine Statistics Authority. (2017). National Demographic and Health Survey.
[Link]
UNDP. (2021). Gender Equality in the Philippines: Challenges and Opportunities.
[Link]
UNESCO. (2021). Gender Equality Through Community-Based Campaigns.
[Link]
World Economic Forum. (2020). Global Gender Gap Report 2020.
[Link]