The Participation of Women in Philippine Elections

Abstract

A study of local politics, particularly of local elections, is an important part of the study of local government in general. Election results from 1992 to May 2001 were analyzed in this study. Focus is directed on women's participation in elections as voters, locally elected officials, as well as their gender roles. Further focus is given to local elections where many women run for office.
The study shows that women have indeed surpassed obstacles, both social and cultural, in the environment. They are now able to participate in the political scene specifically by occupying various positions in the different levels of government. Although there is only a slight increase in the number of women elected to local government positions, there is in fact an increase in their overall electoral participation.