Southeast Asian College Inc.

(SACI)

CONTEMPORARY WORLD
FINAL PROJECT

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
Submitted by:
JAIME CABIGTING Jr.

Summer Class. A.Y 2022-2023

 CONTENT
S
 Interpretation of Inang Laya songs entitled “Babae” and “Babae
Ka!”
 Social issues pertaining to the Songs Babae and Babae Ka
 Controversial cases happened in Philippine Society five years ago in
relation to violation against women (reaction and stand)
 FEMINIST Perspective
 Importance of being a FEMINIST as a Man or Woman
 Law Interpretation (was it applicable in Philippine Society?)
 INTERPRETATION OF
INANG LAYA SONGS
ENTITLED “BABAE” AND
“BABAE KA!”
 Babae lyrics Bakit ba mayroong mga Gabriela BABAE KA
Mga Teresa at Tandang Sora

Kayo ba ang mga Maria Clara Na di umasa sa luha't awa?

Mga Hule at mga Sisa
Na di marunong na lumaban?
Kaapiha'y bakit iniluluha?
Mga babae, kayo ba'y sadyang mahina?
Kayo ba ang mga Cinderella
Na lalake, ang tanging pag-asa?
Sila'y nagsipaghawak ng sandata
Nakilaban, ang mithiin ay lumaya
Ganda lang ang pakinabang, sa buhay walang alam.
Bakit ba mayrong mga Lisa
Mga Liliosa at mga Lorena
Na di natakot makibaka
At ngayo'y marami nang kasama?
Babae ka, hinahangad, sinasamba
Ipinagtatanggol, ikaw nama’y walang laya.
Ang daigdig mo’y lagi nang nasa tahanan
Napatunayan mo, kaya mong ipaglaban
Ang iyong karapatan at ganap na kalayaan.
Ang pinto ng pag-unlad sa ‘yo laging nakasara
Harapin mo, buksan mo
Ibangon ang iyong pagkatao

Kayo nga ba ang mga Nena
Na hanapbuhay ay pagpapuputa?
Mga babae, kayo ba'y sadyang pang-kama?
Ang ating isip ay buksan
At lipuna'y pag-aralan
Mga babae, ang mithiin ay lumaya
Babae ka.
Kalahati ka ng buhay
Kung ikaw kaya’y wala saan ang buhay ipupunla?
Pinatunayan mong kaya mong ipaglaban
Ang iyong karapatan at ganap na kalayaan.
Ang pinto ng pag-unlad sa’yo ngayo’y nakabungad
Harapin mo, buksan mo
Ibangon ang iyong pagkatao

Paano nahubog ating isipan

Babae ka.
At tanggaping kayo'y mga libangan
Dahil sa akala ay mahina ka
Mga babae, ito nga ba'y kapalaran? Alaga mo ay di nakikita
Bisig mo man sa lakas ay kulang
Ngunit sa isip ka biniyayaan
Upang ang tinig mo’y maging mapagpasya
Upang ikaw ay lumaya
Lumaban ka, babae may tungkulin ka
Sa pagpapalaya ng bayan na siya nating simulain.
The songs "Babae" and “Babae ka” questions the traditional roles and stereotypes imposed
on women in society. It challenges the perception that women are weak and incapable of
fighting for their rights. The lyrics also criticize the portrayal of women as dependent on
men for success and objectify women in certain professions.
Both songs empower women to break free from societal expectations and limitations. It
encourages them to open their minds, pursue education, and demand equal opportunities.
The song draws inspiration from historical female figures who resisted oppression,
reminding women of their strength and resilience.
The themes of the songs are relevant in healthcare, where gender inequalities persist.
Nurses can play a crucial role in addressing these issues by advocating for gender equality
and creating an inclusive healthcare environment. Recognizing and challenging
stereotypes is essential to promote a healthcare system that respects and values the
contributions of women in all aspects of society.
 SOCIAL ISSUES
PERTAINING TO THE
SONGS “BABAE” AND
“BABAE KA!”
The songs "Babae" and "Babae ka" address various social issues related to gender
inequality and women's empowerment. Both songs criticize the prevailing gender
stereotypes and societal expectations that limit women's roles and potential. They
emphasize the importance of empowering women to assert their rights, fight for equality,
and challenge discriminatory norms.
The songs also promote social awareness and advocacy for gender equality, encouraging
listeners to reflect on the status of women's rights in society. They highlight the
significance of women's active participation and leadership in various aspects of life,
advocating for a more inclusive and just society. Moreover, the songs raise questions about
cultural and historical influences on gender roles and perceptions, prompting discussions
about the need for progressive change toward gender equality in Philippine society.
CONTROVERSIAL CASES HAPPENED
IN PHILIPPINE SOCIETY FIVE YEARS
AGO IN RELATION TO VIOLATIONS
AGAINST WOMEN (REACTION AND
STAND).
 Lumad Women and Human Rights Violations

In 2016, indigenous Lumad women in Mindanao were

affected by the ongoing conflict between armed groups and
the military. Reports of human rights violations emerged,
including harassment, displacement, and sexual violence
against Lumad women and girls.
Reaction:
The reports of human rights violations against indigenous Lumad women in Mindanao in
2016 triggered outrage and concern among the public and human rights advocates. The
situation exposed the extreme vulnerability faced by marginalized communities, especially
women and girls, during armed conflicts. The reports of harassment, displacement, and
sexual violence highlighted the urgent need for action to protect the rights and safety of
Lumad women, who were disproportionately affected by the ongoing conflict.
Stand:
Support indigenous rights and gender equality. Protect Lumad women's rights and dignity
during conflicts. Prevent gender-based violence and exploitation. Respect indigenous
cultures. Involve communities in decision-making. Seek justice and accountability with
cooperation. Prioritize safety and well-being for all, including Lumad women. Stand in
solidarity for human rights and social justice in the Philippines.
 University of Santo Tomas (UST) Student Harassment
Incident:

In 2016, a video went viral showing male UST students

harassing female students during an event. The incident
sparked outrage and raised concerns about campus safety
and the prevalence of sexual harassment in educational
institutions.
Reaction:
The UST student harassment incident in 2016 caused widespread outrage and concern among the
public. The viral video showing male UST students harassing female students at an event sparked
shock and dismay. It brought attention to the prevalence of sexual harassment in educational
institutions and raised serious concerns about campus safety. The incident triggered a strong desire for
immediate action to prevent such behavior and ensure a safe learning environment for all students.

Stand:
In response to the UST student harassment incident, there was a clear stand on the importance of
promoting a safe and respectful environment on college campuses. The incident highlighted the need
for comprehensive anti-harassment policies and education on consent and respectful behavior.
Educational institutions were called upon to implement proactive measures to educate students about
consent and respect, and to provide resources for reporting incidents of harassment. Faculty and staff
were urged to actively promote a culture of respect and address any harassment cases promptly and
effectively. Bystander intervention was also emphasized as an essential tool to prevent harassment and
create a campus culture intolerant of such behavior.
FEMINIST PERSPECTIVE
As a male nursing student, my perspective on becoming a
feminist has evolved through various experiences and
reflections. Initially, I was introduced to the concept of
feminism through my studies and discussions with peers and
professors. Learning about the history of gender inequalities,
discrimination, and the struggles women face in different
spheres of life compelled me to reassess my own beliefs and
biases.
IMPORTANCE OF BEING A
FEMINIST AS A MAN
Advocating for Gender Equality:
Embracing feminism as a man is essential because it means
advocating for gender equality. Recognizing and challenging
the existing disparities and discriminatory practices that
women encounter is crucial in creating a more equitable
society. Men play a vital role in promoting and supporting
women's rights, dismantling harmful stereotypes, and
breaking down barriers that prevent women from reaching
their full potential.
Challenging Toxic Masculinity:
Feminism also helps men challenge toxic masculinity norms
that impose rigid expectations on how men should behave
and express emotions. By supporting feminism, I can
promote healthier and more respectful relationships with
women and other men. This involves challenging the idea
that showing vulnerability or emotions is a sign of weakness
and recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence
and empathy.
Respecting Women's Autonomy:
Being a feminist means respecting women's autonomy over
their bodies, choices, and decisions. It involves supporting
women's right to make decisions about their careers, family
planning, and personal lives without judgment or
interference. As a husband and father, embracing feminism
has enabled me to actively support my wife's aspirations and
choices, fostering an environment of mutual respect and
equality in our family.
Breaking Stereotypes and Role Models:
As a male feminist, I can challenge stereotypes about what it
means to be a man and serve as a positive role model for my
children. By promoting gender equality at home, I
encourage my sons to develop respectful attitudes towards
women and my daughter to pursue her dreams without
limitations based on her gender.
Contributing to Social Change:
Embracing feminism as a man allows me to be part of a
broader movement for social change. By engaging in
conversations about gender equality and supporting policies
that promote women's rights, I can contribute to a more
inclusive and just society for all.
LAW INTERPRETATION (WAS
IT APPLICABLE IN
PHILIPPINE SOCIETY?)
I believe that understanding the law's interpretation is vital in grasping its relevance in
Philippine society. The legal system acts as the foundation for governance and justice in
the country, but its effectiveness is influenced by various factors that merit attention.
The Philippine legal system combines civil law and common law principles derived from
historical influences. Despite having a comprehensive legal framework, ensuring equitable
access to justice can be challenging, particularly for marginalized groups and vulnerable
individuals. Proper enforcement and implementation are key factors in determining the
law's applicability. Inconsistencies or inefficiencies in executing laws can hinder their
intended impact, underscoring the necessity for fair and consistent enforcement to uphold
the rule of law.
Cultural norms and societal elements also play a role in shaping the perception and
application of laws. Finding a balance between respecting cultural diversity and upholding
universal human rights is essential. Additionally, addressing emerging issues requires a
continuous review and adaptation of laws to effectively meet the evolving needs of society.
To strengthen the law's significance and relevance, it is vital to provide accessible legal
information and education, empowering citizens with knowledge about their rights and
responsibilities.