Women's Sexuality in the Old Philippines

Much has been said about the political and economic situation of the Old Philippines in the history books. There's been something written and published about the campaigns of the Spanish Conquistadors, the Missionaries, the Galleon Trade and the likes. History classes taught us all of these milestones but very briefly about the lifestyle and culture of ours during the different centuries of our history. One thing not readily available is sexuality.

In the late 15th century, a certain historian and Jesuit priest, Pedro Chirino wrote about his stay in the country, as well as the behavior of our ancestors. He, like the other missionaries, were quick to see the practices of early Filipinos.

Ander da Saya

Photo from Okinawa Soba

I don't get to hear this phrase often nowadays. Perhaps it is something that is no longer relevant or it has turned into a different form but of the same context. Some use takusa (takot sa asawa) and other terms I didn't bother to search for or try to remember. It all boils down to one point, a man "cowering" to a woman.

Personally, that doesn't seem like an issue. If one can look at it at a perspective we Filipinos used to see, it shouldn't be embarrassing. But apparently, to the people who invented the term, it seems very unacceptable. "Ander da Saya" is the Filipinized term for "under the Saya" or under a woman's dress. Now you see who made a big deal out of this Pinoy attitude?

Are Pinays Still Respectable?

The world knows about Filipino women. 

They are very beautiful, shy, reserved, submissive and "maasikaso," though at the same time assertive at the right moment. Call it an irony, but yeah, I would have to agree on that. A working knowledge of the English language, very charming smile and superb hospitality could always be a deal breaker. And all of these are possessed by a Filipina. A perfect mate as many foreigners would say, comparing with women in their respective countries. It could be the reason why for a while, a Filipina was treated like a commodity. Is it their fault or is it ours too?

Pinays, the Philippine's Treasures

Regarded as one of the World's most beautiful, the Filipina stands out in beauty and in form. There is a distinct allure, a distinct charm belonging only to the Pinay. The Pinoy Warrior is fierce and brave because of among other things, a Filipina.

We all grew up thinking of the Maria Clara image of a Filipina, as popularized in the novels of Rizal. The baro and the saya, worn by the Pinays are still the classic image of our women. Covered by the pañuelo(piano shawl), it is a sight to behold, and truly captivating. But there's more to it than meets the eye. Although, what the eye see are things really hard to ignore.

They have the most perfect skin color, not too dark, not too light. The envy of the caucasian women, the permanent "tan," that glows and shines in the sun. They have long black hair, as dark as the night, thoroughly cleansed and fragrant. We are a race of people who take great lengths to be hygienic and healthy, and our women take it more seriously.

Proof of Pinay beauty? Our country, with the very few of the world, share a spot  as among the favorites of the Miss Universe beauty pageant.. Perhaps because the Pinays fall on their long gowns face down on stage... yet rise gracefully again.  Two Miss Universe crowns can give you a good reputation. Making it on the semi-finals frequently is another thing. Almost getting the crown but missing the mark is still  well, prestige. Major, major prestige.

Everyone knows the story. The TVs, the papers and the net, it was all over. It was Major, major highlight on the Filipinas. And except for the final moments, everyone placed their bets on a Pinay.

World class we are, but like everything else in the Philippines, we need to learn more. But wait a minute, maybe the whole world was looking at it wrongly. Maybe the whole world got its standards messed up. That is why we fall "short."