Feminism and the womens' movement in the Philippines

The Filipino women's movement has come a long way, but still has miles to go.

Problems had been surmounted in the past, battles had been won, but each generation faces new challenges peculiar and unique from the last. Nevertheless, each generation is also provided with new resources and new strengths; each challenge and resistance gives birth to new kinds of resilience; each battle fought, no matter whether won or lost, is a victory nonetheless. And for the Filipino women’s movement, every day is taking a step toward the envisioned equality, empowerment, and social justice.

This study on the Philippine Women Movement(s) gives special attention to the struggles of women during different historical events and political regimes, including during the Spanish colonization, Marcos dictatorship, and the current challenges under the administration of President Duterte. The study hopes to enhance conversations and possibilities for collaboration among new generation of feminists and experienced women activists at the national and global fronts.

This study is part of a series published under Political Feminism in Asia, a regional project coordinated by the FES Office for Regional Cooperation in Asia.