The gender-fluid history of the Philippines | France Villarta

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In much of the world, gender is viewed as binary: man or woman, each assigned characteristics and traits designated by biological sex. But that's not the case everywhere, says France Villarta. In a talk that's part cultural love letter, part history lesson, he details the legacy of gender fluidity and inclusivity in his native Philippines -- and emphasizes the universal beauty of all people, regardless of society's labels.
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[@dominickly4992]

"Don't break. I see you. My ancestors see you." Beautiful.

[@aznwilly8013]

We don't have gender pronouns equivalent to 'he' or 'she,' instead we have the neutral 'siya.' I used to think that my Filipino language was less superior for not having it. Growing up being taught English at school, and then later finding out all European languages have gender pronouns. I thought we should keep up and invent our version of the gender pronouns to keep up with the norm. But now, having a changed view on the matter. I think we had it right all along. I will stick to the all encompassing 'Siya.'

[@aznwilly8013]

Reymax Arca re:pronouns

[@Ohjieun-j1j]

Ang ganda diba? You will appreciate filipino language

[@senselesssophist5931]

Hence, whenever I write a poetry in English, I just use the word, "You" cos it's neutral sounding like our very own Siya..

[@mimimimi-hx2el]

Yes, napakaganda

[@siyashilla6885]

Lol funnily enough mu name is Siya I'm born male but I often get mistaken as female . I have an androgynous vibe to me as well

[@MarianahsTrenchGal1]

The way pre-colonial Philippines perceived gender/sexuality sounds a lot like how pre-colonial Native American societies viewed it. I find that really interesting.

[@tywinlannister2208]

It is. Up until I conducted my thesis, I didn't know that our ancestors viewed gender very differently than we do today. As someone who identifies as 'bakla' (gay), it's just empowering.

[@kirin7932]

One very important thing that the past europeans destroyed in our culture.

[@pedrokawali5901]

More like same with Thais

[@NA-oc7eq]

Epal yung Christians.

[@kilipaki87oritahiti]

Every indigenous culture in fact! Before the coming of Christianity the world was a much more tolerant place in regards to genders and sexuality. Religious brainwash and propaganda has made people forget this important human mindset, and tradition. 3rd gender isn't new nor a lefties trend claimed by prejudice conservative religious people, and some cultures had up to 7-8 genders. Others didn't divide by set gender like in western cultures. We used to be shamans, holy people, and the keepers and protectors of culture and traditions.

[@shiningfaceofluzon5594]

I'm Filipino, now i know why our pronouns are gender neutral "Sya" instead of "he" and "she"

[@goldenwarrior1186]

Technically, Ate, Kuya, Binibining, Ginoong, and Ginang aren’t gender neutral. But in general, it is.

[@rainb5987]

@@goldenwarrior1186 Ate and Kuya were derived from Chinese word.

[@jivatma]

Ginoo is gender neutral. "Aba ginoong Maria"

[@georgesaad9870]

Unfortunately, language does not always reflect cultural norms. Turkish is quite a gender binary country but there is no gender distinction in the pronouns.

[@2557carla]

@@georgesaad9870 Because of Arab influenced the Tengrism or Pre Islamic religion of Turkey I believe there's no homophobia.

[@gabequirino]

This was such an eye-opener. I've always wanted to learn more about precolonial Philippines. Our schools somehow only give a five-minute introduction about this period and then go straight ahead to our colonial history for ages on end. It's like we never left colonialism at all.

[@Anxiou5Panda]

Unfortunately, a lot of Filipinos never moved on from that mentality.

[@kirin7932]

@@Anxiou5Panda I agree and some are even proud that we're colonized.

[@hellobello3153]

He left out the surrounding cultures and tribes. His theory is quiiiiiite a stretch. No books, no peer reviews. Take this video with a spoonful of salt.

[@klaudinegarcia8932]

That would explain why colonial mentality wouldn't stop spreading to next generations......

[@katsan9155]

@@hellobello3153 Everything he said, I learned in my college history class and books. I don't know what more evidences do you need when even institutions agree with these facts.

[@JanSuing]

I never understood why Western cultures like to be specific about gender especially in their language. French and other Western languages even impose a gender on objects. As a Filipino, we use only one pronoun for everyone, no matter who they are: “siya” or “s’ya”. That’s it. It’s that simple. No wonder, the Philippines has consistently placed on the Top 10 of most gender equal countries in the world. We even have a transgender woman lawmaker.

[@jeremyparame8718]

but we still need to improve. for example the 12 yrs old as age of consent which is the lowest in asia and also the lack of education regarding sexual health.

[@kazranjamison1125]

@@spongemon1 sweet piss nuggets dude relax

[@dirtpillow5073]

@@spongemon1 Filipino language have basic structure though. And using loanwords isn't only something that has happened after European colonialism. English is overloaded with loanwords from French and even French borrowed a lot from Latin.

[@jborobia2056]

@@spongemon1 okay, troll

[@goldenwarrior1186]

@@dirtpillow5073 Yup. One example is piñata.

[@clevergrl28]

A beautiful recounting of Filipino history. Having grown up there and later living in the US I never understood the backlash in western culture about pronouns since we generally just use "they/them".

[@user-pz4bn5jg7w]

"Social constructs can be reconstructed to fit a time and age."

[@tywinlannister2208]

social construction at its finest

[@EnigmazGuide]

IS biology is a social construct lets see how good you are in basic science

[@user-sb8ks1ij7b]

@@EnigmazGuide I don't quite understand what you mean.

[@gungatz6696]

@@user-sb8ks1ij7b his saying in biology there can and always been man and woman, one having a pipi and the other a second lip.

[@rainb5987]

​@@EnigmazGuideFunny. Using biology against gays while ignoring the fact that biologists have observed homosexual behaviors in animal kingdom

[@DMK195601]

I have conducted many talks on gender identity. This is among the very best. Universal in scope. Beautiful. Thank you. ❤️

[@valariansapanta5365]

This is something that most of all Filipinos should watch and listen to. This is an avenue for people to at least open their minds that gender is irrelevant when it comes to the society, that gender shouldn’t be a barrier to things that a person could do because WE KNOW FOR OURSELVES THAT WE CAN OFFER SO MUCH without gender inclusivity. 😓

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

@papasrod you are the one who needs it

[@yeetah42025]

@由 You're only hateful because you're in the closet. lol

[@Nick-dx2pt]

@由 why???? You're the one who clearly needs it

[@pontanoscharlottejamillacr4516]

@由 I think you liked your own comment because you're the only one who agrees with what you said

[@vladanr74]

This speech is very well prepared and superbly delivered. Regardless on which side of the fence you stand on this issue. Kudos to you Young Man.

[@Karlandra]

Why does it have to be a fence though?

[@marvinochieng6295]

No it doesn't

[@adriajawort]

There is no side of the fence. Side of what?

[@mojosbigsticks]

I remember my step-mother saying that gay people didn't really exist, because there weren't any gay people around when she was growing up. The fact it was illegal to be openly gay back then seemed to pass her by.

[@evangarcia3531]

Non-gendered pronouns are pretty much standard in the vast Austronesian family to which all Filipino languages belong

[@OosGuitar]

as an androgynous 'male' struggling with self identity this was incredibly motivating for me to be myself

[@OosGuitar]

@Sandcastle • thanks man, glad that see that you proudly identify as a 'sandcastle'

[@emerygaylearceo1875]

"Don't break. I see you. My ancestors see you."

[@meco2001]

I wish I could time-travel and try living in the pre-colonial Philippines.

[@2557carla]

Yeah me too. I wish I was the Queen of Butuan and I will subject my Kingdom to Siam or Sukkhothai so that I will preserve the Hindu Buddhist heritage of Maritime Southeast Asia to prevent conversion to Islam or Christianity. Just like Nakhon Si Thammarat it's actually an Tanah Melayu or Malay land the Malay people called it Ligor or Negara Sri Dharmaraja but they subject themselves to Ayutthaya or Sukkhothai so that they won't become Islamize.

[@creestee08]

Tas mag tiktok ka.

[@ItsToady]

You would find it uncomfortable living through that timei guess

[@mari2099.]

@@creestee08 real

[@reina_harhar7815]

Only if you're a man. Women barely had any rights in that era, they can act around but with limits. However the Babaylan seemed to have exceptions so if you would time travel in pre-colonial, you'd wish to be Babaylan.

[@JohnHlavaty]

Although I have met only a small fraction of people born and raised in the Phillipines, I am impressed by their friendly openness and their acceptance of nonconforming human beings. Perhaps the most amazing aspect of their openness and acceptance of people as they find them is that the 300 years of the pernicious imposition of rigid beliefs by Catholic missionaries seems to have failed in terms of deterring Phillipinos sincere "love for their neighbors as they love themselves.". Unfortunately, the current President of the Phillipines seems intent on changing these good people from lovers to haters as the means of consolidating his personal power during this time of conflict, in which the Phillipines is caught between US hegemony in the Southern Pacific (South China Sea), and China's rising challenge against it.

[@octavia7408]

Hi, I am born and raised in PH and have lived here all my life. I understand your outsider's perspectives but that is exactly that, outsider. You really have to understand our culture better and what has transpired over the last 30+ years for you to understand why majority of the people picked a populous leader like Duterte. How the western media portrays him lacks context and understanding of what the culture is from the South of the Philippines. People who supports him do not expect him to be perfect but to instill the discipline and political will that's been mostly lacking in so many years and has contributed to a lot of the problems normal Filipinos face on a daily basis. If you ask an ordinary millennial Filipino today who grew up not with privilege but really in as normal individuals taking public transportation and etc. They would tell you safety has increased a lot. The youths of today do not know that. The media writing about the Philippines to the international audience either grew up abroad and or came from privilege and would never understand that local sentiment on the ground. Sometimes, as an outsider like yourself, you have to be careful with applying your lenses of western ideology to a country like the Philippines. Filipinos still continue to be welcoming but also many are waking up from their colonial mentality and have realized that the USA has not really done them any better than just positive propaganda. The country remained poor for many years because of many years of bad economic planning and a very restrictive 1986 constitution. He isn't consolidating power, he is reacting to the US based of his experience with the CIA when he was a Mayor. He isn't a fan of the US and has highlighted the hypocrisy of the US many times and I know, they came out like rants full of curses. But he isn't exactly wrong. We've been a US ally since the US colonized us and yet after the damage of the was that was brought by being allies with the US, we've been left behind among our neighbouring countries. Being allies with the US hasn't really benefit us other than brought us more colonial mentality. There is nothing wrong with seeking other allies like China and Russia who are much more closer. I would rather our country go neutral than pick any sides.

[@katsan9155]

If that's how you see us, please rethink your ideals. We were never a "lover" nor was "hate" so strong it caused us to loot our neighbors shops. From my perspective the people wanted the change, from ignorant and manipulated to knowledgeable and confident. We are in a transitional state. We used to "love" because we didn't know any better, and we "hate" because we finally caught up to the schemes and manipulation behind it. I don't particularly love or hate our current president but one thing is for sure, I respect the fact that he gave a platform and voice to the people who were unheard for a long time. And I despise that violence was one of our most drastic options. He was a spark that made the populace rediscover and redefine our identity even if it meant to disagree with allies that don't have respect for our sovereignty when worst are happening in their own country.

[@octavia7408]

@UCITyZx8j8kDBmCyfRtcotXw "We all get the discipline part of your argument." -No, you do not, you picked one specific point that I did not even focus on and you dismissed everything else. "...but to be absolutely frank, you don't actually need to be a born and raised local to understand what is truly going on here in the Philippines." -Of course you would need to be born and raised here otherwise your perspective would be superficial just like those of Maria Ressa and Heydarian alike, both staunch anti-Duterte who shares mostly negative news about the Philippines to their international audience, both grew up outside of the Philippines, both having western-based mindsets, both hated by many locals. Do you know who labeled Mindanao as a war-torn area? What do you think was the impact on that? "This narrative you people keep pushing "people lack discipline" is such a backwards statement that doesn't actually zero in on the true problem.Lack of discipline is just the excuse to implement unjust and questionable methods of upholding the law. The true crime here is people like you, who stay blind from unthinkable mistakes and pass it up as "nobodys perfect" why dont you keep that same energy to your own people? You are aware of the ongoing corruption here in the philippines, correct?" -How convenient for you to accuse me when you yourself are very shortsighted with the whole problem. How much do you really understand the whole picture? How much do you really understand the culture from north to south? How much do you know of the attitudes of the people and how corruption has been enabled from the tiniest things starting from school organizations to Barangays? Those people will eventually carry that to their offices or to the Government agencies they served. Can you say for sure everyone in your clan is never guilty of any minor corruption? Do you think the problems can be fixed by a saintly person? Your idealism is cute but you need more books to read and less self-righteousness. You want to fix corruption? Help the Philippines shift to a parliamentary system where politicians can easily be accountable. Are you doing that? "I would assume that corruption within the govt has already been a problem way before you were born. Maybe you should shift your attention from the less fortunate and disadvantaged people to those who are in power.” -So, who do you think are the ones who are truly in power? Do you actually know? Have you done your part to really do your research, to dig deeper? Your projection and self-righteousness are really cute. "Have you seen the state of public versus private schools? The difference is lightyears. How do we keep children in school when we cannot even prioritize funds to improve the standard of comfort in public schools? Even if public school children get to finish their primary and secondary studies most couldnt even afford to continue in the collegiate level.” -Depends on the region. Actually, provincial public schools are performing better than those from NCR. Why do you think that is? "So, they work minimum wage jobs that you know damn well cant sustain a household of 2 or more people. So most blame them for not actually succeeding in life given the circumstances they deal with, shouldn't the blame go to the who run and control the system? Not the people.” -Nobody is blaming them for not actually succeeding in life and you can not depend on the Government to always spoon-feed you. There are several factors that contribute to the lack of discipline. 1.) The feeling of resignation that one is so little to change the outcome of their situation and their environment, hence the “Bahala na" attitude is rampant. 2.) The colonial mentality that breeds inferiority and a constant desire to be validated by outsiders, so, they focus on looking outside and devalues everything on the inside. 3.) The decades' impact of dumbing down the populace by the media. Again, who really runs the whole system? Do you really know? And do you know why I approved of ABS-CBN’s contract being discontinued? Why is Vietnam’s economy gaining speed recently but not ours? "No wonder most protesters are "spoiled rich kids" and "snowflakes" just to be labeled disruptors, terrorists and what not, when they are fighting for the wellbeing of the poor and unfortunate. Gising din.” -Yes, most protestors don’t know any better and a lot of them making noise is just that, making noise, they have not actually changed anything other than band-aid solutions, most of them are actually influenced by NPA ideology, which many from NCR dismiss because again, they don’t know any better and they don’t know what’s happening on the ground in the provinces with their Manila centric NCR based views/media. And yes, many spoiled rich kids are impressionable, just write an article about a farmer supposedly killed by the army and they believe it when it fact farmer was killed by private armies or NPA themselves. Yes, you don’t know how much of our media is infiltrated by NPA sympathizers and you do not know the impact of their destabilization on our country for many decades. Actually, the problem here is people like you who like to open your mouth but do not actually take the time to dig deep into the whole systemic problem. Take the time to dig deep instead of projecting your frustrations on me. We can agree that we both want the same thing for the Philippines, that we want the poverty gap closed and people to enjoy a great quality of life. There are many things the country needs to fix, first one is security, those rebels need to go, you can’t educate people when security is always at risk. Our restricted FDI’s are not allowing more investors to our country. Our Government system is limiting the provinces to improve as they always have to wait for their National budget, hence a Parliament Federal Government would be better for the Philippines to allow provinces to develop their areas and lessen the number of people flocking NCR. And lastly, this colonial mentality needs to go, Filipinos need a strong identity by knowing their true history, not the whitewashed history fed to us by our colonizers or those by NED/CIA or western-based media. That’s the best way you can uplift people. So, ikaw, gising ka ba tagala?

[@octavia7408]

@UCYBX4xFue6K_ej16vjSEVuA Well, if your religion constantly tells you that it's a sin and constantly threatens to exclude you from your church community/society and guilts you about it since birth, that would not be surprising. Some people can't handle cognitive dissonance and can't get out of the religious brainwashing. Blame the religion that was forced upon the people, not the people themselves.

[@JohnHlavaty]

@Octavia Maligning me as a white, imperialistic, American is such a sleazy means of not arguing the facts, especially when you are vehemently defending a man who has publicly endorsed the summary execution of suspected or alleged rebels and/or drug dealers - an extreme violation of human rights - is grounds to reject your defense of this murderer in its totality. The absurdity of your ad homenin attack is that I prefaced my criticism of your President by acknowledging my opposition to American hegemony and in no way criticized China. What I did imply is that your President is using the Phillipines' position in-between a rock and a hard place as the means of striking fear in the hearts of Filipino people and the means to consolidate his power. The irony is that my brief note of more than a year ago was a statement of soldarity with the people of the Philippines in this time of transition and turmoil.

[@TheRealGuywithoutaMustache]

Off topic, but the Philippines has some good tasting food

[@theconductoresplin8092]

Better topic actually But yeah food there is pretty good (Just don't try the balut)

[@engr.nemuelobas4923]

Yup. Every provinces has their own kind of delicacies. Must try

[@scienceteam9254]

@@theconductoresplin8092 *laughs in frog*

[@weareparamore1597]

Yah, balut

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

That's true. And the exotic ones are worth a try at least once in a lifetime.

[@allisontumale33]

That’s very informative. I love the “babaylan” part, brings me back to my university days when I first encountered it in detail. It’s empowering to learn about women playing one of the highest roles in society.

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

Wow...Filipinos are writing here that they didn't learn it in school. Me neither. Which University is that? Thumbs up to that university.

[@allisontumale33]

Create happiness with Olga we did actually, in grade school it was mentioned, and then I learned it in detail during my history class in college. I’m from the University of the Philippines.

[@HudaefCares]

I also read from r/Philippines subreddit that purity wasn't a valued thing for pre-colonial Filipino women. Apparently there was even a job of sorts where a man was tasked to 'get rid' of a woman's vcard if you know what I mean.

[@joiereyeslo]

Back then, sexual gratification was a mutual goal. Men even had to pierce their genitals to please their partners. Even Miguel de Legazpi noted that Filipinas were treated well by their husbands. You can read more about this in the book written by Luis H. Francia entitled, "A History of the Philippines: From Indios Bravos to Filipinos."

[@rainb5987]

Women and gays

[@ligiasommers]

Wonderful TED! He was funny but kind , smart and caring ! Loved it 💖

[@henryg3146]

Moral of the story? Just be nice to each other.

[@creestee08]

I can get on with that

[@gungatz6696]

A summary i can root for

[@inzanity490]

Apparently that is just way way way too hard for some people. Way harder than a Math exam

[@weareparamore1597]

its hard to be nice when your religion shoves to your throat the fairytale that gays are sinners and abomination.. especially those radical ones

[@jayfox1981]

Language is the image of one's culture. Our Filipino words and terms are mostly nuetral except those foreign or barrowed which already became "natural" part of Filipino daily parlance. This however doesn't mean that we don't give importance to gender differences. Gender differences for pre-colonnial Filipinos is simply a means not an end. They don't have to fight for gender equality because they know they have it already and the male counterparts ricognise it without fuss and so much chit-chat. Life is creation-decreation-recreation. If this view has been decreated along the passing of time after it was created then it's possible to recreate once again.

[@cyb3rd0ll88]

This was a nice TED Talk, an eye-opener! Thank you!

[@astrotaco_bps]

WOOT WOOT i love seeing such academic excellence from my people A very well-spoken guy 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@nellyg149]

As a FilAm mestizo transman, it warms my heart so much to see this. The world is finally only starting to see the magic and gender fluidity that The Philippine People has always had, but was under attack by various colonial forces. Thank you, kapatid. For your incredible words. And for inspiring me and so many others to live our truth. 🌸🙏🏼📿 side note ted talks need more Filipino speakers, obviously 😎

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

I agree... Ted Talk needs more Filipino speaker, because they are really authentic.

[@oliviagreen7423]

Same with Native tribes in the U.S. Before colonialism multiple genders were recognized

[@genicahnoynay3860]

The dislikes are coming from hardcore religious transphobic filipinos

[@razzyromeo]

like my mom lmao

[@jeskvell3254]

@@razzyromeo make sure to not become one with your future kids

[@pyschofreak8416]

😂

[@weynnerguillen9533]

True Filipino's Dislike this video Lady regardless of Faith.

[@yeetah42025]

@@weynnerguillen9533 nope. pre-colonial tribes back then in the Philippines were LGBT friendly.. lol

[@jdb6026]

Out of topic here, but as a Filipino, damn, that accent is soooo good. It's a perfect blend of North American and Filipino, but it doesn't sound "konyo" at all. Just the right mixture of elements that make both accents generally distinct. Oh, and he doesn't use as much filler words. Amazing.

[@LifeWithAllOfUs]

What a well spoken individual! Loved it

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

I agree. It's amazing how he delivered it.

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

A topic that raises diverse reactions. But fact is, humans destroy each other and the world that they live in, if there is no acceptance, tolerance, respect and love. Mabuhay ka kabayan!

[@bonniesentyou50usd4]

I encountered these pieces of our history in a subject. It’s very interesting and beautiful. It’s sad that people lack knowledge on our Pre-colonial past!

[@bobongcecilion6928]

That closing was beautifully delivered.

[@unknown01ify]

"Being yourself is extraordinary"

[@moonwhistle]

This is a meaningless comment.

[@nikkiv2839]

Proud to be a Filipina. 🇵🇭 Thanks for teaching me more about the pre-colonial Philippines.

[@Xtoffer87]

Being proud of your race doesn't make sense. What you should be proud of are your achievements. Is being born in your race your achievement? Did you have control over it?

[@shivatrashakti9419]

It's more like being proud to continue the traditions and way of life and values upheld by your people in the past. It is about keeping history alive in yourself.

[@NovaGirl8]

@@Xtoffer87 filipino is a nationality not race as that would be asian. Either way, nothing wrong with being proud with it as well as ashamed of it depending on the situation.

[@engr.nemuelobas4923]

For me, I am not proud anymore. Yes, I am proud of who we were. In today's time? Nahhhh. Since many rich people want to take control of the country, many thirst for power, not minding why they are in their position, some are taking it as an advantage. Kahit noon pa sa panahon ni Rizal, wala tayong pagkakaisa. Katulad tayo ng ating mga isla, watak-watak. At dahil doon, kahit kaunti lang ang presensya ng mga kastila, nahimok parin nila tayong kontrolin ng tatlong daan talumpu't tatlong taon. Isa sa mga hangad ni Rizal ay alalahanin sana natin kung sino tayo, yung mga Pilipino na masisipag, matalino, hindi uto-uto, matapang. Pero wala eh. Sarili lang ang iniisip natin.

[@NovaGirl8]

@@engr.nemuelobas4923 ganoon talaga ang tao kahit saang bansa ka pumunta. May varying shades of greed be it good or bad. Even with the current situation, I am thankful that we only have a fewer cases than some 1st world countries and fewer deaths compared to our population density.

[@daxter956]

As a Filipino born in Canada, thank you for reconnecting me to who I am

[@engr.nemuelobas4923]

Of you're interested. I suggest you study about the precolonial Filipinos and how the Spanish government changed them

[@daxter956]

@@engr.nemuelobas4923 Do you have any recommended resources?

[@FTLNewsFeed]

A lot of dislikes, I'm guessing 95% are people who never actually watched the video or listened to what he was saying, just saw the title and auto-acted.

[@rainb5987]

Self righteois Religious people

[@nuclearpancake3683]

@@rainb5987 fr, it sucks

[@swordpegasus4032]

I am half Filipino and Canadian and my personality is serious and outgoing and I love reading and art and I love comics and cartoons.

[@twisted267]

Beautiful message at the end! Indeed i always wondered what life was like in precolonial philippines. As i write this and worry about the chores i havent done, what were the worries of our ancestors then? Fights against neighbouring tribes? Debts that made you a slave? Trading goods that you harvested? Or is your nipa hut strong enough to stand the storm? How about the jewelries adding weight to your being? And the elders chanting stories with all of their heart to the people... man we can only imagine

[@hueofperi]

Stumbled on this video randomly for a school activity, ended up becoming my favorite TedTalk.

[@lecirajuarez2944]

This is such a great talk on Gender! The scope is so broad, wonderful! Thank you very much.

[@Shiroya_Rumika]

The thing is, the hardships you faced in the Philippines is everyday, it is why we formed bond to those who are with us, not caring who or what they are, as long as we are happy, that's all it matters

[@andreamenosa6609]

Clicked on this vid on first sight, and you did not disappoint, brother! It's so nice to learn a new bit of history, especially if it's something that was never discussed in the classroom. It saddens me how this hugw chunk of history is censored and cut out, while stories of masculine imperialism, war, betrayal and murder fill more parts in our history books as if misdirect us to ignore the fact that whatever history lessons instilled in us is just a fraction of the truth.

[@mbdragon8873]

That's deep afk

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

Part of the story was actually the explanation, why Filipinas are on top 10 or 20(It depends which year) in gender equality. Top 1 in Asia. Before the Spaniards came, women were on the same level as men.

[@nicolasomongos378]

Gender for our case in the Philippines is imposed rather than constructed.

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

🤔

[@JohnHlavaty]

Would you expand on your comment? Thanks.

[@nicolasomongos378]

@@JohnHlavaty in reference to the talked, he mentioned that the Philippines has no written history not until it was discovered by the Spaniards. Spanish historians started describing how gender neutral the first settlers in the Island. In Spanish record few male settlers would wear what Spaniards describe as feminine clothing and there are also males who performs female jobs and treated as female individuals. In persuit of colonization, Spaniards started imposing what gender should be in accordance to their norm. So the gender in the Philippines is more likely imposed rather than constructed. The infos (historical references) was based from the video.

[@sergsremarca8281]

“Being yourself is revolutionary” 💪🏼

[@shivashakti4261]

I am a Filipino transwoman. Thank you for this dream Ted talk, France Villarta! ❤️

[@meryeldls2940]

A fellow Filipina here, the talk was informative and genuine! Yes, being yourself is revolutionary! 🏳️‍🌈

[@barnobarno5403]

Why are you gay?

[@GoUpv13]

@Herr Reid's Underling • 69 years ago ok boomer

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

Why are there people, who think that being themselves is not revolutionary. - I bet they want to be somebody else 🙄 What a...

[@rowrowyourboat1043]

Filipino woman

[@yeetah42025]

@@barnobarno5403 You need to ask yourself why you're triggered. lol

[@SharleneKate]

Stop confusing people. Men are men and women are women.

[@monkebrainiac]

i wish we had more lectures like these about our pre colonial culture(s)

[@hanadook3271]

I liked the part where Frank told them that after all these years, some countries started accepting that the world is more diverse than it seems; they started to realize that their mindset can be reconstructed and gain more from learning learning through each other's differences. here in the Philippines, we are in a phase that we're slowly accepting that the Filipino community has variety of colors. Now, I am glad that there are now laws giving acknowledgement to every gender around the nation. Although some are still not addressed, I know that the government is working on bills for everyone to give a just and proper right.

[@MAUREENDASCO]

As a Filipino, one point that I like is that we started our culture from our own and it's called the "babaylan's" and they started this gender diversity unconsciously and this challenged the traditional gender norms. Our history tells us that we need to reevaluate our current gender norms and that we need to promote more inclusivity because it emphasizes the importance of recognizing diverse gender identities within the Filipino community. It fuels the drive towards building a society that is deeply inclusive and affirming, where everyone is free to express their gender identity without fear or prejudice. Embracing and respecting the fluidity of gender not only honors our past but also propels us towards a future where all individuals are seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are.

[@MostlyLoveOfMusic]

People who get their heckles up with stuff like this just need to chill out and enjoy the scope of possibilities in life

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

👍

[@jonpadrejuan5357]

the very first filipino (very filipino looking) speaker i watched and listened to in that stage. proud of you and pride to our race.

[@caitgems1]

You aren't a race, you are a country!

[@jonpadrejuan5357]

@@caitgems1 i meant. the malay race where filipinos belong

[@jonpadrejuan5357]

@@caitgems1 and our country is the philippines btw

[@tropturd6458]

@@jonpadrejuan5357 The inhabitants/citizens of the Philippines do not belong to a specifically exclusive race. Even before malays/austronesians migrated to the Philippines, there are already a wide variety of ethnic groups and races living in the Philippines islands.

[@jonpadrejuan5357]

@@tropturd6458 and it is definitely a race and not a country. thanks for sharing.

[@BekiMon]

The closing part was the sweetest!

[@daniels.os.]

We need more respect and empaty in this world. Thanks, TED. :)

[@createhappinesswitholga9875]

Yes we certainly do

[@GRACEMANALANG-jw2es]

The people of our country, ever since, experienced discrimination from the way they express themselves. Which is something that shouldn't be normalized. Over the years, our fellow Filipinos, especially the older ones, would call a feminine boy “gay” if he expressed himself to the environment he is living in. This kind of topic is socially relevant to our country who has been religiously based when it comes to things. I think people should start opening their eyes and minds that our country is evolving and people change overtime. I think it's interesting that our country’s ancestors were more diverse than us. People should really be aware that we shouldn’t judge people for the way they express themselves. It is really revolutionary to think that people could express themselves without thinking what other people might say. For me, being who you really are is a step to success.

[@Logan-wv8qf]

This is what courage, strength, compassion, and genuineness look like. -A US Army Veteran and Teacher

[@idanzamir7540]

This was pretty good, why does it have so many dislikes?

[@shivatrashakti9419]

Close-minded people. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@walaxel926]

cerrrrtain demographic gets their jimmies rustled merely by the mentioning of such words as "gender-fluid" xd :/

[@barnobarno5403]

Because it's gay

[@shivatrashakti9419]

@@barnobarno5403 Lol, found the hater.

[@barnobarno5403]

@@shivatrashakti9419 nah, you just find a Guy who hasn't lost his Common Sense

[@abbycheselle]

The Philippines has a long history of cultural permissiveness and accommodation of gender variance. The speaker, France Villarta, argues that this is an important part of Philippine history that has been forgotten. I like the part when the speaker, Frank Villarta gives the example of the Babaylan, a pre-colonial spiritual role that could be filled by men or women. This challenges the idea that gender is binary and based on biology. This is socially and culturally relevant in Philippine society because it challenges the idea that the Philippines is a conservative country. The Philippines is a Catholic country, but Villarta argues that this is a relatively recent development. Before Spanish colonialism, Philippine societies were more accepting of gender variance. This history is important to remember because it can help Filipinos to be more accepting of LGBTQ+ people today.

[@sergioperezio5523]

"learning and working through our differences" loved it.

[@leahs8244]

I’ve always wanted to hear about this from a Filipino persons perspective. Love this so much!

[@yamajim526]

Women are well-respected during the pre-spanish era. Even the priestess before is a woman and they called it "Babaylan" one of the most powerful title-holder in the pre-colonial period.

[@mariaeguchi1533]

Thank you so much! I'm doing research about LGBT+ rights on Phillippines for MUN and this video was very helpful to understand the issues.

[@Marchant2]

A lot of transphobia in the comments. No matter how much they hate and denigrate, they know they’re losing the battle to knowledge and enlightenment, which is their #1 enemy and has nothing to do with simply tolerating.

[@NockyBoober]

www.glaad.org/blog/glaads-2018-accelerating-acceptance-report-shows-alarming-decline-lgbtq-acceptance

[@spotlessmind7681]

they're at odds with themselves

[@Jackraiden500]

@@NockyBoober lol gotta love the irony, also I wonder if the op noticed thier own hypocrisy?.

[@Starcrash6984]

@Scribbli Chheery This is often said in response to "homophobia", too, but it's not merely "dislike" if your concern with it extends beyond yourself. I'm sure there are many things that you "dislike" but make no effort to attack, bully, or even have a public opinion about. Trans/homophobia is often the irrational fear that it "spreads" like a disease, that acceptance will make it more common. Homophobes, for instance, often claim that children who see it on TV will decide that they can also be homosexual -- though one wonders why this doesn't work with seeing heterosexuality on TV. It's both irrational and a fear.

[@creatorsremose]

@@Starcrash6984 I don't believe that's the case. In their battle (an unfortunate word, but accurate enough) for acceptance they instigate resistance. They don't ask or argue to be accepted, they demand it, sometimes by actual force. They know the reality in which they live, how saturated it is with religion and steeped in close-mindedness. This is not a climate for war, this is a climate for dialog. Not for the rape and pillage of cultural icons as the canvas of their message, but for the display of their virtue through compassion. Think Ghandi, not Geghis Khan. I believe their cause will be much better felt and accepted this way, rather than the unfortunate way they have chosen.

[@filipinophile8148]

This is beautiful and educational. The Philippines also has various gender non-conforming figures (gods, heroes, etc) in many of its indigenous religions.

[@merlin88888]

I hope they taught us this back when I was in high school

[@Kevin-vc3jf]

classic example of cherry picking small details from history,misrepresenting facts and making exaggerated claim that they will then use to support a modern day agenda. the Egalitarian part is true and still true in some sense but the gender fluidity is too far of a stretch.. using the "babaylan" to justify gender fluidity. "Babaylan"/shaman are considered as oddities that is why they are able to perform the role of the shaman. But this does not mean that it is widely accepted or practiced. They are oddities who are seen as someone who have super powers meaning.. not normal. Majority of people still adheres to their traditional gender roles.. the father taught his sons his personal trade and how to defend the community and the mother taught their daughters how to take care of the house. they did it with the Greeks using the pederasty or the relationships between the male teacher and his student to create the narrative that the this kind of things are widely accepted but other primary sources contradicts this claim.. also the Satyrs which are also unnatural and used to represents negative characteristics were used to support their claim. this is the problem whenever presentism kicks in.. forcing modern day concepts in interpreting the past. STOP FORCING MODERN DAY CONCEPTS INTO HISTORY! even this gender ideology is a form of western cultural imperialism! Imposing western perspectives in understanding other country's past.

[@boosay1146]

they were oddities? OUUCHHHHHH MAY GOOOOOOD AAAAAAAAAAHH OOOOH MY GOOOOD

[@louineerickadelmendo9425]

What i like in this Ted Talk is the recognition of precolonial Philippines society where we can see the gender diversity and inclusivity just like lenie she is a transgender woman but her community where she lives accept her despite of her being transgender it shows that sometimes we see different in our perspective because we are unfamiliar but if we become familiar we will learn now to understand it. It challenge the rigid binary concept of gender and shows the importance of understanding and accepting different identities The social and cultural relevance in Philippine society lies in its recognition and acceptance of gender diversity and inclusivity. The history of precolonial societies in the Philippines, where gender roles were more fluid and women had significant power and autonomy, showcases an alternative understanding of gender beyond the man-woman dichotomy. This cultural heritage challenges the rigid, binary concept of gender and promotes a more inclusive and accepting society. It highlights the importance of understanding and embracing diverse identities, ultimately promoting gender equality and social progress in Philippine society.

[@lawrenceart574]

“Being yourself is revolutionary..”

[@JOHNDAVIDEBALIDA]

i like the Spanish colonization of the Philippines brought with it the imposition of rigid gender roles and the enforcement of Catholic doctrines, which suppressed many indigenous practices, including those related to gender diversity. However, despite colonial influences, elements of pre-colonial gender diversity persisted and adapted over time. Acknowledging the gender-fluid history of the Philippines is socially and culturally relevant as it promotes inclusivity, human rights, and cultural preservation. By recognizing diverse gender identities, society fosters equality, supports marginalized communities, and enriches cultural representation, contributing to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

[@yuancarlos23]

"A little somethin' somethin'' lols

[@pvkjhilk8323]

gender fluid, as in they kill all no matter the gender Duterte answe to coffee, "shoot them dead"

[@cleo_moon18]

I watched a TED Talk by France Villarta about the gender-fluid history of the Philippines. I liked Villarta's speech about the babaylan and how he recognized his own family in the Philippines. However, I disliked that in the context of the babaylan, there were women who were viewed differently by men there. The topic is important because it provides knowledge about the Philippines, its culture, and its origins. It also highlights what it means to be Filipino in the provinces. Additionally, the history discussed shows what happened to earlier generations when the Spanish arrived and colonized us. From this colonization, we inherited surnames, language, and other aspects from the Spanish.

[@ritsukauenoyama716]

Why am I crying

[@pantheraviva]

same

[@creestee08]

Baka emosyonal kang tao

[@DaBlondDude]

Well delivered, explained and supported. An odd point I noticed, though, is while he portrays binary roles as an societal imposition, he identifies spirits as masculine/feminine and supports this (even historically) by what they do, how they act and the roles they take ... wouldn't this merely be suggesting a different criteria for definitions of masculine/feminine by other societal standards?

[@jmaes7735]

Yes, although I’m personally trying to figure out what the difference was. My current theory is that masculinity is defined by hunting/fighting and providing immediate needs while femininity is defined by wisdom, spirituality, and making wise decisions about how those resources provided by men should be allocated/used (women were often more trade savvy). What seemed to be praised was flexibility because of our creation myth being bamboo centric (bamboo is flexible; bends but doesn’t break; it survives the hottest of droughts and harshest of typhoons; it stands proud and tall but when the wind blows it bows down) men and women were created when a giant bird, Bathala, split bamboo. One side emerged man, the other side woman. Feminine men were celebrated fs (but I’d assume the same of masculine women) I assume because they were flexible and had the traits of both genders. What this video does miss is that male/trans fem babaylan wielded swords even though they didn’t fight.

[@rainb5987]

It's fluid. It means you can be either masculine, feminine or in between. You can even change the mixture (80% masc and 20% fem) or even change it during your lifetime. In short, it's not rigid.

[@skylarwhitey0]

we use Sya or nya, "sya" if we are talking about the person and "nya" if we are talking about the person's object

[@homunculi0408]

Pre-colonial Philippines society was more advanced than today's society.

[@creestee08]

Uh huh. cars, internet, skyscrapers at eroplano ganern?

[@rainb5987]

@@creestee08 Are you an ìdìot? Of course, he was referring to gender equality because that's the topic being discussed in the video.

[@wooeidikd9412]

True we were colonized by dilawans. During Marcos era we were rich after that wala na

[@rainb5987]

@@wooeidikd9412 According to golden kuhol?

[@wooeidikd9412]

@@rainb5987 Marcos era was the golden era and they also respected the LGBT. Even the whole Marcos family supports the LGBT. It was the fault of Cory Aquino that LGBT became stigmatized :(.

[@nataliaivashkina]

Beautiful and informative talk. I learned something. XOXO from Philippines!

[@creestee08]

Inclusive meaning kahit yung ayaw sa lgbt e kasama pa rin?

[@Sheila_Chu]

Why do people comment before watching the video

[@oliver9815]

* Comments 3 minutes after the video was uploaded *

[@VytautasLDK]

Cause idea of video is stupid and doesn't match TED format?

[@Finimabob]

@@VytautasLDK how so?

[@revspikejonez]

For the same reason a bunch of idiots downvoted this.

[@revspikejonez]

@@VytautasLDK Or, alternately, you're stupid.

[@alidelatierra]

Indigenous excellence!!!

[@spotlessmind7681]

being yourself is revolutionary

[@iliakaplan]

Great presentation.... Inclusivity is key, I agree

[@englishforlisteningonline]

I cried! thank you so much for this!! thanking our non-colonial ancestors. I thank them for this!

[@sky_izm]

I learned something new. I was tasked to do a research paper about social construction of gender in college (I am a social studies major, btw). What he said is very informational. His English is great.

[@shivatrashakti9419]

English is taught in many Filipino schools. I went when I was fourteen and my younger cousins spoke a lot of english, with some accent, but wide vocabulary.

[@NovaGirl8]

the language also reflects gender fluidity. It always fascinated me that all our pronouns are neutral and you have to emphasize the gender if you need to.

[@Nick-dx2pt]

The amount of homophobia and transphobia in this comment section is utterly disgusting 🤮

[@creestee08]

shucks binilang mo? 👍

[@GarrettEderer]

Kids can still be easily influenced by what is taught. Yes we should teach respect and give people the same rights and fair chances without hate, but we still have to teach something to the kids. That's what I think is important. It seems to me the more parents teach their kids about all these different gender and sexual roles (and teach them as normal) the higher likelihood those kids will pick something different.

[@MrRayrenz]

OK but SOGIE still isn't passed in this country.

[@arisyuboc9088]

POV: You're here because of module.

[@precioussahagun7277]

Hi may ask if you did a reflection paper?

[@Jobe-13]

I wish this was much longer. Pretty great video!

[@LuxiBelle]

> I wish this was much longer. I bet you get told that alot

[@keiladalia679]

Makes me prouder to be Filipina

[@spotlessmind7681]

long live precolonial Philippines 🙌

[@GhastlyCretin]

Um, they're all dead by now. Hate to break it to ya.

[@spotlessmind7681]

@@GhastlyCretin traditions and values are still alive among some, maybe many as a part of their culture. the speaker is one example (sigh)

[@GhastlyCretin]

@@spotlessmind7681 Sure, all traditions from the ancient world like child sacrifice are awesome and should be kept alive and considered holy because... old.

[@spotlessmind7681]

@@GhastlyCretin off topic

[@GhastlyCretin]

@@spotlessmind7681 No it's not.

[@klovespancit]

thank you for all your hard work and sharing. 🙏

[@reddrawslive]

One of my favorite KZbinrs is from the Phillipines and in non-binary, ReddsMess

[@PhilipJSmithNov1990]

He should've mentioned the Muslims because they also banned that sort of thing before Spanish colonisation.

[@sojournern]

Excellent. Tolerance is grace.

[@zoeeyf.439]

we need assistance, mitigation, any help to make sure franky and zoeey are safe from harm anywhere they go. they are just 2 friends with the same egalitarian goal. they may be from different cultures but they both understand what the world needs. and it doesnt need another war.

[@nadpah]

Brilliant talk, in just 11 minutes ✨

[@sonipohjola9243]

I cried at the end. Thank you. So much.

[@BrodWizMoon]

As Villarta stated, one affects how we see gender is culture, but not all cultures are rigid, and does not see genitals primarily as a standard of our gender. In Philippines, the culture has been influenced by culture of Spanish who colonized Philippines for 333 years who brought Catholicism, but before that in pre-colonial era, woman has a greater power than man in the character of babaylan, and that time the babaylans are not only woman, but there are also man, who are said to be gays. The gays are honored and respected for their capability and flexibility of doing tasks that are both for men and women. The love for gender variants in the pre-Hispanic era was eradicated because of the Spanish friars who taught our ancestors that these male or gay babaylans are demonic and evil, such a misrepresentation that reduced the vibrant identity of male or gay babaylans. The dichotomized perception of gender hammered into our heads as social construct, Villarta argued that if this view is constructed then we can reconstruct it again. What Villarta has stated is extremely true, but it is an arduous task for a community or a country like here in the Philippines to change what has been hard-wired in our head for over 500 years since the arrival of Spaniards in our country. The power of religion on the other hand affects our culture and as well as how we see gender. If the highly respected priests and religious figures will be the one to initiate for revival of what the Filipino-catholic ancestors destroyed in terms of the vibrancy of our gender treatment, then there can be a hope for reconstruction of this kind of culture, a culture that promotes homophobia and heterosexism. Villarta emphasized at the end of his speech that integrity, kindness, and strength of character are far better measure of judgement than race, skin color or even genitals. A strong and powerful statement that if shared to every Filipino will give hope to the reconstruction of our gender misrepresentations and shall give equal treatment across genders. Overall, this video of Villarta about the relationship of culture and gender promotes leaning towards gender equality and gender diversity.

[@helliomagne9488]

Thank you so much

[@troyfernandez8331]

late comment but hi genderfluid filipino here and I'm crying watching this. thank you

[@EnigmazGuide]

so do you get upset called by he and she? bcoz i dont just wondering

[@hannahgalangco5304]

Omg, fellow genderfluid folk ❤ hope you're doing well!

[@EnigmazGuide]

@@hannahgalangco5304 you both sound like wanna be water.

[@EnigmazGuide]

All i can say there are lies in this vidoe. Pls fellow pinoys dont get baited by lies. There are more evidence that pilipino ancestors were not animalistic. All this are westernize idealogy. Being spread to be indoctrinated.

[@troyfernandez8331]

@@EnigmazGuide filipinos were literally genderfluid in precolonial times. most of our gods were trans or genderless. there are lies in your religion. please fellow pinoy, don't get caught up in the lies ❤️

[@andrearaspopi]

Hearing this it's possible that the Babylan Male Shaman had hormon impairment that may be as a result of some endocrine disease.

[@zoeeyf.439]

i will research each word i was able to write down and try to understand what he's saying, i just need to rest abit im a bit sleepy

[@hanazawariu]

The ending was sweet. Cried a little. Thank you.