Finally, the Philippines in on top of a list that is not negative. I am used to seeing the Philippines on top of the list of the most polluted, most corrupt, or most violent countries in the world. So, imagine my surprise to see the Philippines (no. 6) on top of the World Economic Forum’s Gender Gap Index joining countries like Sweden (1), Norway (2), Finland (3), Iceland (4) and Denmark (8)! It is the only Asian country in the top 10. It seems that the Philippines is lost in Scandinavia in terms of gender equality.

Studies show that we Filipinas edged our male counterparts in the education and training sectors from primary (87%), secondary (76%) and tertiary education (56%). There is also a significant increase in the number of female executives (97,000 women managers added in 2007 compared to only 16,000 men).

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In a lot of countries, the word Filipina is synonymous with domestic helpers, nannies, mail-order brides and prostitutes. This we have to accept. I have nothing against people engaged in these trades, hey prostitution is the oldest profession in the world. I cannot argue with that. Obviously, it’s necessary for the existence of mankind.

With a risk of sounding like Malu Fernandez, I have to admit that in the beginning of my stay in Switzerland 4 years ago, I did not appreciate to be asked if I was a mail order bride or if my husband bought me (yup!) or if I take care of children. I was trying to be a scientist but all I got was judgmental stares as I walk along Zurich’s streets. I felt that I was being dismissed and belittled just because I was Filipino.

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