Moreover, the emphasis on physical appearance, particularly the trope of the "skinny" or " petite" Filipina, reinforces unrealistic beauty standards and objectifies these women. This phenomenon is not unique to Filipina domestic workers, as migrant women from other Asian countries, such as Indonesia and Thailand, also face similar objectification.
Hochschild, A. (2012). The second shift: Working families and the revolution at home. Penguin. monger in asia skinny filipina house cleaner work
In Asia, the Philippines is one of the largest suppliers of migrant domestic workers. Many Filipina women migrate to countries such as Hong Kong, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia to work as domestic helpers, often under contracts that specify their duties, working hours, and salaries. Despite their significant contributions to the economies of host countries, migrant domestic workers often face exploitation, abuse, and marginalization. (2012)
Migrant domestic work is a significant aspect of the global labor market, with millions of women from Asia, particularly the Philippines, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, employed as domestic workers in various countries worldwide. These women often leave their families and communities to work in private households, performing tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare. The labor of care, as Arlie Hochschild (2012) terms it, is a vital yet undervalued and often invisible form of work. In Asia, the Philippines is one of the
The cultural construction of Filipina domestic workers as "natural" caregivers and domestic workers reinforces the notion that these women are suited for certain types of work. This not only limits their opportunities for social mobility and career advancement but also erases their agency, experiences, and identities.
Ultimately, this paper argues that a nuanced understanding of the experiences and identities of Filipina migrant domestic workers is essential for promoting social justice, dignity, and respect for these women. By highlighting their agency, experiences, and contributions, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society that values the labor of care and recognizes the diversity of human experiences.
