by: Marianne Ignes

This article will explore the significant challenges Filipina athletes face, highlighting their journey towards equality and recognition in a traditionally male-dominated sports landscape.

(Editor’s note: Girls Got Game is also the name of a Philippine non-profit aimed to empower young Filipinas in sports. Check them out here!)

The Rise of Filipina Athletes

In recent years, stories of Filipina Athletes like Olympic medalist Hidilyn Diaz have emerged, reinforcing the idea that no one, especially women, should settle for less, especially if they know they deserve better. Diaz’s triumph at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 was a historic moment for the Philippines, yet it also underscored the ongoing struggle for adequate financial support and resources for female athletes. Despite her success, Diaz revealed that she continues to face financial difficulties as she prepares for future competitions, illustrating a systemic issue where even top athletes lack the necessary backing to thrive. With Diaz’s story, one can’t help but wonder, Shouldn’t all athletes, regardless of gender, enjoy the same support from the country they love and seek to represent? 

Similarly, the Philippine Women’s National Football Team, known as the “Malditas,” made remarkable strides, qualifying for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Their journey reflects talent, determination, and a growing recognition of women’s sports in the country. However, these successes are often overshadowed by persistent issues such as gender discrimination, unequal pay, and inadequate funding. 

Challenges Filipina Athletes Face 

In the dynamic tapestry of Philippine sports, it is undeniable that traditionally, sports are dominated by male athletes. Cultural norms and societal expectations often pushed women to roles that did not emphasize physical prowess or competitive sports. Despite such constraints, female athletes in the Philippines have been making significant strides, gaining recognition and breaking barriers in various areas of sports. Even with significant progress, there are still identifiable barriers Filipina athletes face, namely:

1. Limited Financial Support
2. Inequality in Coaching
3. Cultural Stereotypes

An online news article entitled “Let Her Play” conducted a survey among sports stakeholders, which revealed that a majority believe sports are still viewed through a gendered lens, with certain sports considered “male” domains.^[ This perception contributes to the underrepresentation of women in various sports disciplines. Another barrier Filipina athletes face is the experience of sexual harassment. In a featured story by Rappler, they interviewed Vernice Gabriel, famously known as “Crystal” who is a professional wrestler and the Philippine Wrestling Revolution (PWR) champion, as she came forward and spoke about her experiences of sexual harassment in the sport. She explained that she was sexually abused by former Singapore Pro Wrestling’s Alex Cuevas and wanted to speak out to end said cycle within the industry. In wrestling, where intergender matches are standard, such female wrestlers are already at a disadvantage due to the inherent difference in the strength of male wrestlers as compared to female wrestlers. Furthermore, being a professional wrestler did not in any way accord Crystal and her co-female wrestler’s protection from sexualization. 

Although she acknowledges that their in-ring outfits are intended to attract people’s attention to the sport, this does not mean that they invite any form of sexual harassment. She elaborates on the implications and effect of such occurrences on female participation in the sport, as there have been numerous instances of female wrestlers trying out for PWR but not pushing through because of their unpleasant experiences with men pursuing them.

Although Filipina athletes have made remarkable strides on the national and international levels, identified challenges persist, and studies and personal accounts highlight the impact of such barriers. These reveal the systemic biases and cultural stereotypes that undermine women’s participation in sports, reinforcing the need to challenge these stereotypes, advocate for equal opportunities, and provide better support and facilities.

The Need for Systemic Change

The current landscape of Female athletes in the Philippines is a complex and multi-faceted mix of progress and persistent challenges. Despite the international success stories of Filipina athletes and the increasing visibility of women’s sports teams, deep-rooted gender biases and societal stereotypes continue to hinder full participation and equal treatment of Filipina athletes. To address these disparities, the article calls for comprehensive policy reforms and greater investment in women’s sports at all levels.

The surveys and interviews have revealed that deep-rooted gender biases, limited representation, and societal conditioning confine girls to traditional roles, affecting their participation in sports from the grassroots to the professional levels. Notable achievements by athletes such as Hidilyn Diaz and the PWNFT have highlighted the potential of Filipina athletes. However, unequal support, limited media coverage, and fewer opportunities compared to male athletes continue to hinder their progress. Public perception and societal attitudes, shaped by media and cultural norms, further challenge Filipina athletes. Many girls are discouraged from participating in sports, facing stereotypes and a lack of encouragement from families and communities. Yet, sports participation has proven transformative for many, providing benefits such as improved physical fitness, confidence, and goal orientation.

Efforts to change these perceptions are ongoing. Advocacy groups, sports organizations, and increased media coverage are crucial for promoting gender equality in sports. The Philippine Sports Commission plays a vital role in advocating for female athletes’ rights and ensuring equitable treatment. Legislation such as the Magna Carta for Women and the Safe Spaces Act aims to protect women’s rights even in sports; however, implementation remains inconsistent. The successes of prominent Filipina athletes inspire a new generation and challenge stereotypes. Still, sustained efforts are needed to provide equal opportunities and recognition of female athletes in the Philippines.

A Call to Action

“Girls Got Game” is more than just a slogan; it embodies a movement toward empowering female athletes in the Philippines. By recognizing their struggles and advocating for change, society can foster an environment where women can excel in sports without facing systemic barriers. As Filipina athletes continue to break records and challenge norms, they must receive the support they deserve– both on and off the field. The journey towards equality in sports is ongoing, but with concerted efforts from all stakeholders, a brighter future for women in Philippine sports is within.

Marianne is a senior in Ateneo Law School. Marianne’s inspiration for writing this article on strengthening female athletes’ rights is Beyoncé’s halftime performance on NFL Gameday last Christmas (Who Run the World? Girls!).