Gender and Society

• Robert Fox’s study highlights a remarkable equality among couples
• In pre-colonial Philippines, women already hold notable roles in their community. Such a position is called Babaylan or "priestess
• In their community, they are the central figure in religious rites. Often regarded as the spiritual leader, they are responsible for leading rituals for events such as harvesting and weddings. Their deep connection with nature allowed them to become the bridge between the spiritual world and the physical world.
• Babaylans were also known for being healers. They have knowledge about herbal medicine that was passed down from generation to generation. The babaylans would use this knowledge to cure illnesses and diseases.
• In Panay Island, there's a woman named Lubluban who is known as the first Philippine Visayan lawyer or lawmaker
• She also deals with various issues related to rituals, practices, property and inheritance. In addition, one of the rules or laws created by Lubluban is called "Larao".
• Even in marriage, the asawa are the decision maker in terms of how many kids they should have, the name of each kid, and also where they should settle down. The married women also have the right to own property and divorce their husband, in cases like domestic violence, non-support of husband, infidelity, and childlessness. ( Asawa The wife )
• Was known to be the first female revolutionary leader against Spain. took over the rebellion in Ilocos when her husband Diego Silang died, She became the Ilocano rebel army’s commander for four months before being caught and executed by the Spaniards. ( Gabriela Silang )
• She was regarded as the “Mother of Philippine Revolution”, she is the wife of Andres Bonifacio who leads the Katipunan and a member of it who fought alongside him ( Gregoria De Jesus )
• Popularly known as Tandang Sora was known as the “Mother of the Revolution.” During her time as a supporter of the revolution, she would feed the Katipuneros, provide them shelter and other necessary provisions, and tend to their wounds. ( Melchora Aquino )
• She founded the Girl Scouts of the Philippines in 1940 and fought in world war II, was born in Dingras, Illocos Norte on September 20, 1898, the eldest of seven children. ( Josefa Llanes Escoda )
• Known to be the first ‘Miss Philippines’ who’s also feminist, journalist, and writer. ( Pura Villanueva Kalaw )
• A well-known female figure that fought against the Americans back in the war, she is an active member of the Feminista Ilongga which is established by Pura Kalaw. ( Pura Calleja )
• She fought for freedom from the Spaniards until she was captured and beheaded on September 20, 1763 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. ( Gabriela Silang )
• She’s a teacher and a suffragist who is considered to be a leading figure to women suffrage who fight for women’s rights in society. ( Pura Calleja)