Positive Perceptions on Gender Equality Highlight Mixed Perceptions in Politics

In celebration of International Women’s Month, findings from the 2026 Worldviews Survey (WVS) report reveal that Filipinos perceive significant progress in gender equality at home and in their workplace. However, perceptions of equality in the political aspect are relatively lower.

Net indices across these three key areas reflect an overall growth in positive perceptions among global citizens, with the Philippines generally outperforming the global average:

• ➣ At Home: 77% of Filipinos believe gender equality has been achieved, a rise from 52% in 2024.
• ➣ At Work: Perceptions on gender equality increased to 63% from 42% in 2024.
• ➣ In Politics: Only 19% of Filipinos perceive that gender equality has been achieved in the political area, indicating a 5% decline from 24% recorded in 2024.

Women Remain Uncertain on Their Safety in the Philippines

In the 2026 global data, the Philippines ranked 6th place among the safest countries for women walking alone at night. However, the national sentiment has shifted negatively, with the overall perspective significantly lower by 7% since 2024. Women, in particular, feel more anxious for their safety when walking alone at night, reflected by a 12% decrease in confidence since 2024.

Violence Remains a Reality for Many Filipinos

The report reveals that nearly 1 in 10 Filipinos have experienced physical and psychological violence in the past year, with higher exposure noted among the working class and younger generations. These findings indicate that while perceptions of gender equality have improved, there are still substantial gaps that need to be resolved to ensure the protection of the people and a consistent sense of security among them.

As the president of WIN-MR, Richard Cowell states that, “Equality on paper or policy is not enough. Without physical safety and protection from gender-based harms, true equality remains incomplete, and efforts to close the gap between perception and reality must remain urgent and sustained.”

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