In their struggle for emancipation, Filipinas have not modelled themselves on men's behaviour. They have retained their femininity, which by no means implies accepting men's claim to superiority. The Filipina not only rules the roost in the family and at home, but has considerable influence in the workplace, business world and public arena.

In the interest of getting to the top of the career laddder as quickly as possible, ambitious young women exploit their appearance and intelligence by presenting themselves to the public and by being judged in scores of beauty contests. The bigger contests are always attended by VIPs, who often sit on the jury as well. Apart from good looks, a candidate in the battle for the crown has to be of a minimum height and be able to produce, at least, a high-school leaving certificate.