Angel Nicole R.

Patiga BEED 1-A Gender and Society : Lesson 9

Activity 1 : Contemplate and reflect on the following questions.

1. Which among the above stated constitutional provisions are the most important
to you? Provide your reason.

Article XIII Section 14 on Social Justice and Human Rights of the Constitution
provides that the State shall protect working women by providing safe and healthful
working conditions, taking into account their maternal functions, and facilities that
will enhance their welfare and enable them to realize their full potential in the
service of the nation.
 This bill addresses the need of women for sufficient medical screening during
their pre- maternity period.
 This bill mandates a one day leave every month with payment from filing of
notice of such pregnancy until delivery, abortion or miscarriage.
 This pre-natal leave benefit is in accordance with Republic Act No. 9710 or the
"Magna Carta of Women" which recognizes the right of women to support
services that will enable them to balance their family obligations and work
responsibilities.

2. Do you think these constitutional provisions are lacking or already sufficient?

Write your reasons.

I believe that this constitutional provisions are already sufficient to protect and
promote women empowerment. In 2018, the Philippines ranked 8 in the survey of
countries that are best for women. This year the Philippines ranked 56 in a survey for
countries with gender equality. Our constitution might not be that polish yet but for
now it is enough. In the future, there might be more that will strengthen the laws that
protects women and promote empowerment.
Reasons that the constitutional provisions are already sufficient :
 It provides women protection.
 It Allows pregnant women to have a maternity leave .
 Provides opportunities for women in the work field.
 Ensure fundamental equality in nation-building.

Activity 2 :
1. Do the number of laws and rights of women discussed indicates that the Filipino
women are already empowered?

In my personal opinion, our constitution has provided enough rights for women in
our country to be empowered. Compared to the how women in other countries are
being treated, women in the Philippine are valued and treated as equal companion to
men. Here in the Philippines women are given the rights to be who they are and what
they want to be. Women in the country are allowed to vote, has the right to attain
education and property and most especially, there are laws that protects them from
harassment and abuse.
There are countries that do not allow women to get involve in anything and see
women as a gender that is weak, like women in Iraq. Iraq is one of the countries in the
world that has the lowest rate of gender equality. Women in the country are struggling
to fight for their rights. They are oppressed and some are treated as a possession after
being arrange in a marriage. According to Tafen Kareen, everyday women in Iraq are
being emotionally, physically and mentally abused and murdered.
In 2018, the Philippines was rank number eight for countries that are best for
women. In addition, women in the Philippines can choose to marry or not, and that
alone shows that women are empowered, they are able make choices and decided for
their future. The laws promoting gender equality is indeed enough to empower women.

2. Utilizing your knowledge now on laws, programs and rights of women, what can
you do to uplift women empowerment in the Philippines?

There are many things that we can do to empower women. There is only one
important thing that a women wishes to be shown, and that is respect. The laws,
programs and rights that the Philippine constitution have for women, if summarize into
one simple word, I believe, respect is the rightful word. Women wants to be respected
in every aspect, respect for their privacy, choice, gender, stand and as a human in
general. Respecting women is priceless and anyone with morals can do it. In addition,
another way to empower and uplift women is through leading by example. If you want
others to also do what you are doing, start by setting an example. If people will see what
you are doing, it will open their eyes and be inspired by your deed. Being a good
example to others, is a great start to spread awareness and teach others, especially the
little ones about the importance of gender equality and women’s rights.