Abstract
The Republic of the Philippines (Philippines) became independent in 1946, throwing off over 300 years of Spanish rule and another 50 years of American rule. However, the legacy of colonialism lives on in Philippine laws. As with all former colonies, the Philippine legal system reflects its multi-layered history. For women, this has meant the continuation of oppressive patriarchal laws, legitimizing their husband’s rule over them. This dynamic stands in stark contrast to the equality of rights for men and women codified in the Philippine Constitution and international human rights treaties the country has ratified.