Gender Equality In The Philippines: The Case Study of Transnational Advocacy Network by Gabriela Women’s Party In The Philippines (2017-2020)

Abstract

This research examines gender equality in the Philippines through a case study of the Gabriela Women’s Party and its role within Transnational Advocacy Networks from 2017 to 2020. The study focuses on how Gabriela utilized international linkages, solidarity movements, and advocacy campaigns to advance women’s rights and improve community welfare. During this period, the Philippines experienced both progress and setbacks in gender equality, as reflected in its fluctuating rankings in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index—from 10th in 2017 to 17th in 2020. These shifts, alongside the enactment of gender-related legislation such as the Expanded Maternity Leave Act (2019) and the Safe Spaces Act (2019), provide a crucial backdrop for analyzing the influence of feminist advocacy. Using the framework of Transnational Advocacy Networks, this research explores the strategies, contributions, and limitations of Gabriela Women’s Party in bridging local women’s struggles with global feminist movements. The findings highlight how Gabriela leveraged international solidarity to amplify women’s voices, strengthen grassroots mobilization, and pressure policymakers to address gender-based inequalities. At the same time, the study identifies the challenges faced by Gabriela, including political opposition, resource limitations, and shrinking civic spaces. This research contributes to the understanding of how transnational advocacy can serve as a powerful tool for advancing gender equality and community welfare in the Philippines. It underscores the importance of linking local activism with global networks to ensure sustainable progress in women’s empowerment.