Despite decades of progress, women in the Philippines continue to face systemic barriers in their pursuit of equality. From political underrepresentation and gender-based violence to economic disparities and limited legal rights, these challenges point to the urgent need to improve women’s rights in the country.
Violence against women is high
A 2022 survey undertaken by the Philippine Statistics Authority revealed alarming rates of violence against women. Among women aged 15-49, 17.5% reported experiencing physical, sexual, or emotional violence by their intimate partner. Emotional abuse was the most prevalent at 22.3%, and worryingly, two in five survivors did not seek help.
Gender gap in politics and work
Representation of women in politics remains low. As of February 2024, women held only 27.3% of parliamentary seats, down from 30% in 2017. The World Economic Forum estimates that it may take 48 years to achieve parliamentary equality and up to 95 years for full political gender parity.
With regard to the labor market, in 2019, men were paid more than women in eight out of 10 occupations, for example, women earn 18.4% less than men in digital jobs. In addition, around 6.6 million Filipino women work in the informal sector, making them vulnerable to exploitation. The country has also been listed among the worst for workers by the International Trade Union Confederation for eight consecutive years due to the hostile treatment of trade unions.
Child marriage and lack of divorce laws
Child marriage persists in the Philippines, with around 286,000 girls aged 15-19 (5.6%) being married or in union, and this is the fifth most common reason for girls aged 12-17 to drop out of school.
The Philippines remains the only United Nations member state without a civil divorce law, except for Muslims under Presidential Decree 1083. While the Absolute Divorce Act made progress during the 19th Congress, it still awaits Senate approval. Annulments are allowed but are often slow, and the cost of US$4,000 makes it inaccessible to many. Just 1.9% of Filipinos have received an annulment or become separated or divorced based on the latest Philippine Statistics Authority census.
Land rights and indigenous women
Women continue to face barriers in land ownership despite policies such as the Department of Agrarian Reform AO No. 2011-01, which promoted equal rights. From 2000 to 2015, women accounted for only 33% of the beneficiaries of agrarian reform. Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources shows gradual progress in gender equity for property rights in 2009-2003, with women’s share of free patents increasing to an average of 44% compared to men’s 56%.
The Indigenous People’s Rights Act of 1997 also safeguards land rights and participation in decision-making for indigenous women. Despite progress, gaps remain, and critics argue that more needs to be done to ensure equitable access.
Leaders call for action
Vice President Sara Duterte advocates for unity among the government, the private sector, civil society, and citizens to combat gender-based abuse and discrimination against women. Despite Filipino women’s progress in various fields, she notes that such issues remain prevalent.
“Filipino women lead change in various sectors, driving innovation and community development, contributing to a more inclusive society. However, despite their progress, many face threats from violence, human trafficking, and exploitation, which hinder their empowerment and dignity”, she commented.
Department of Migrant Workers Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac advocates for workplaces that are free from violence and harassment and is pushing for the adoption of International Labor Organization Convention No. 190, which recognizes the right to a safe working environment, including protection from gender-based violence.
“Let’s review and adapt our existing rules to incorporate C-190 standards, ensuring workplaces are free from violence and harassment”, he urged.
