The Filipino Woman

1. Pre-Colonial Period

Philippine history is replete with stories of great men who have shown heroism and excelled in various
fields of knowledge. Likewise, the country is also endowed with great women who proved to the world
that they have made a difference. This fact holds true even during pre-colonial times.

Women enjoyed relative freedom in pre-colonial society. They had rights, held property, conducted
business, and had a public life. Colonialism stripped Filipino women of their position. They were
expected to remain within the home and only concern themselves with housework and raising children.

2. Spanish Period

The glorious years of the women were destroyed when the Spanish arrived during the 16thcentury. They
brought with them their own idea of what a woman is and where she is supposed to be placed in society.
From men and women being equal, women were turned into objects of suppression. By this time,
education in the Philippines had been altered and was based on Catholicism. Priests stood as the
educators.

The ideal woman for the Spaniards is someone who is overly religious, submissive, and obedient. Yes,
the typical Maria Clara. That mahinhing dalaga stereo type was brought to us by the Spaniards.
Women can no longer loiter around, run along the meadows, and swim in rivers or climb trees as
children.

3. American Period

The coming of the Americans created opportunities for women to earn college degrees and learn the
essentials of business. According to Mendoza-Guazon, women were employed in managerial positions as
heads of business firms dealing in textiles and native cloths, jewelry, embroideries, pawnshops, rice and
foodstuff, bakeries, real estate, and transportation.[6] The influence of women in business has even
extended to retail and other industries previously dominated by men.[7]

An analysis of the role of women in society during the American regime showed their evolving presence
in the economy. Filipinas were given more responsibilities as managers in different industries because of
their leadership skills and good work ethics.

4. Japanese Period
Women during Japanese period have also contributed to the battle with the Japanese. Some even became
the leaders. Its just that majority of the women during the Japanese occupation are oppressed. After the
Japanese leave the Philippines with the help of the Huk, the Americans took what the Filipinos gained
during their absence.

5. Modern Period

The modern Filipina still has that passionate heart for her family. She still has that caring, nurturing,
serving facet to her character. But her soul is now much more able to rise to increasing challenges, face
them, and crush the limits put around her ancestors. It is not unusual to see a Filipina running her own
company, leading communities, speaking her mind, defending the country, shining in the global arena,
holding the countrys top positions, and more, all while making sure that her family is well-taken care of.
Today, more and more Filipino women boldly conquer various fields, make their marks, inspire
excellence, and defy antiquated expectations of them.