It Takes a Man…and a Woman!: Lived Experiences of Generation Z Babaeng Manliligaw

• Main Authors: Pasion, Marie Noelle N., Mañabo, Aya C., Hernandez, Natalie Truth M., Rosario, Kenneth Karl A.
• Format: text
• Published: Animo Repository 2023
• Subjects: babae; manliligaw; generation z; courtship; romantic relationships
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2023/paper_ghi/3; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/conf_shsrescon/article/1787/viewcontent/PP_GHI_Hernandez_Mañabo_Pasion_Rosario___Kenneth_Karl_Rosario.docx.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

Panliligaw is a courtship practice that is unique to the Philippines and holds an important role in the country's history, culture, and norms. However, since the conventional notion of panliligaw is highly patriarchal, this study focuses on investigating the practice as implemented by a babae. Specifically, this study aims to examine the motivations, practices, and effects of the existence of Generation Z babaeng manliligaw on their romantic relationships. Additionally, it aims to intersect the relevance of Philippine culture represented by panliligaw, its modernization, as well as the eradication of the stereotype and stigma surrounding babaeng manliligaw. Using the data gathered from semi-structured interviews, the research will utilize Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis to explain the practices and approaches of the demographic. The results found that common motives of panliligaw are self-expression, a desire to challenge gender norms in courtship, peer influence, avoidance of regret, and attraction. Modern panliligaw practices among Filipinas include gift-giving, acts of service, harana, and quality time with their partner. Outcomes of panliligaw initiated by a babae vary from romantic reciprocation to a lack of romantic development. In terms of dynamics, initiating panliligaw improved the manliligaw’s confidence, but also intimidated partners due to the manliligaw’s assertiveness. The babae’s practices and approach are similar to the culturally identified practices of traditional panliligaw. Unlike the traditional practices, the selected demographic utilizes modern approaches such as digital communication platforms. The findings also highlight the contribution of modern babae mindset through their advances and practices in panliligaw.