Duwi Iscala
“Men are for This; Women are for That?”
Traditional gender roles are deeply ingrained in the Philippines. Older generations often expect men and women to adhere to specific responsibilities, with men being the breadwinners and women taking care of household chores and childcare. For instance, in some Filipino families, women are expected to cook and clean, while men are expected to work and provide financially. This traditional view is rooted in the country’s machismo culture, where men are often seen as the dominant figures and women are expected to be submissive and nurturing.
However, this perspective is being challenged by younger generations who are promoting equality and flexibility in partnerships. Many young Filipinos believe that men and women should share household responsibilities and have equal opportunities in education and employment. This shift in perspective is reflected in the growing number of women in the workforce and the increasing number of men taking on more active roles in childcare and household chores.
According to a 2020 report by the Asian Development Bank, the Philippines has made significant progress in promoting gender equality, with women now comprising nearly half of the country’s workforce. However, despite this progress, women continue to face significant barriers, including limited access to education and employment opportunities, as well as societal expectations that prioritize their roles as caregivers and homemakers.
The Philippine Commission on Women notes that gender equality is essential for promoting social justice and human dignity. By challenging traditional gender roles, individuals can work toward creating a more just and equitable society. In the Philippines, where machismo culture is prevalent, gender equality can help promote a more balanced and inclusive society.
PROUT (Progressive Utilization Theory) also emphasizes the importance of gender equality and challenges traditional gender roles. PROUT advocates for the empowerment of women and recognizes the value of women’s contributions to society. According to PROUT, women should have equal opportunities in education, employment, and politics, and should be free from exploitation and discrimination.
PROUT’s vision for a just society includes the eradication of gender-based discrimination and the promotion of women’s rights. PROUT believes that women’s empowerment is essential for achieving social justice and human dignity.
Moreover, promoting gender equality can have significant economic benefits. A study by the International Labour Organization found that increasing women’s participation in the workforce can lead to significant economic growth and poverty reduction. In addition, challenging traditional gender roles can also have positive impacts on men’s mental health and well-being. A study by the University of the Philippines found that men who take on more active roles in childcare and household chores experience lower levels of stress and anxiety.
To promote gender equality, it is essential to challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes. This can be done through education and awareness-raising efforts, as well as policies and programs that promote equal opportunities for men and women. For instance, the Philippine government has implemented policies aimed at promoting gender equality, such as the Magna Carta of Women, which provides for equal opportunities for women in education and employment.
Additionally, there are various organizations and advocacy groups working to promote gender equality and challenge traditional gender roles. By recognizing the value and contributions of all individuals, regardless of their gender, we can help create a more harmonious and progressive society.
Sources:
– Asian Development Bank. (2020). Gender Equality in the Philippines: Progress and Challenges.
– International Labour Organization. (2019). Women in the Workforce: An Unfinished Agenda.
– Philippine Commission on Women. (2020). Gender Equality in the Philippines.
– PROUTist Universal. PROUT’s Vision for a Just Society.
– University of the Philippines. (2018). Men’s Involvement in Childcare and Household Chores: Impacts on Mental Health and Well-being.
– World Economic Forum. (2020). Global Gender Gap Report 2020.
