Why Do Pinoy Date Older White Men?
Filipino women have long been engaging in relationships with older white men, but why is this the case? Many people assume that these types of relationships are based on money and power, but there’s more to it than just that. In this article, we will explore some of the historical, economic, cultural, emotional security, and social pressure factors that contribute to Filipino women dating older white men. We'll look at how colonialism has shaped Filipino identity; how economic opportunity can be a draw for both partners; Westernization as an influence on love; feeling valued and emotionally secure when dating someone outside one's culture; and finally the pressures to conform which may play a role in choosing a partner. By exploring all these aspects together we can gain a better understanding of why Filipinos date older white men.
What is the Article About?
Pinoy, or Filipino citizens, have increasingly started to explore and pursue the world of dating westerners. Dating in the Philippines wasn't necessarily a commonly accepted practice decades ago, but with increasing exposure to different cultures and people through modern media sources, Pinoy have become more open-minded and curious about international dating experiences. Young Pinoy have been especially eager to meet interesting people who can come with them on their journey of self-discovery as they take part in the 'Philippine dating game'. As Pinoys gain more confidence in dealing with westerners while continuing to embrace their own traditional values and culture, their romantic pursuits have become increasingly adventurous.
Group portrait of three Filipino women and one man, location unknown, Philippines, 1888. Photo by John Tewell. Flickr.
Historical Context: Colonialism and Filipino Women
Pinoy have a long and complex history with colonialism - one that is particularly relevant when it comes to Pinoy women. Since the sixteenth century, Filipino women have experienced oppression and discrimination stemming from colonial forces. Filipino women dating back hundreds of years have seen benefits for men before women, as well as legal systems that heavily privilege men's interests. Pinoy women in particular have also had to contend with a host of additional issues including higher rates of poverty and limited access to education compared to Filipino men. Colonialism has caused Filipinos (and women in general) much hardship, but despite the hardships, they still manage to rise above and reclaim their identity on their own terms.
Hello Girls, Dollhouse bar, Angeles City. Photo by Blemished Paradise. Flickr.
Economic Factors: Opportunity & Wealth
Pinoys dating pinpointed economic factors as the chief contributor to opportunity and wealth in society. Filipino Dating research suggests that educational attainment and ownership of assets, such as a home or reliable transportation, are the leading indicators when it comes to a person's prospects for both economic opportunity and wealth. Not surprisingly, Statista found better results in terms of both opportunity and wealth among those with higher levels of education, who were more likely to own assets and had higher incomes. Dating research also found that certain geographic areas tend to offer better opportunities for economic growth than others. Overall, the research highlighted the importance of economic factors such as educational attainment, asset ownership, income level, and environmental influences when it comes to opportunity and wealth.
Cupidtino - iPhone Dating App for Macheads. Photo by Photo Giddy. Flickr.
Cultural Factors: Westernization & Love
Pinoy, or Filipinos, have long been influenced by western culture, and that influence has certainly extended to their dating habits. Filipino women can be found using the same dating websites and apps as Americans and Europeans - everything from Bumble to OkCupid - whether it's to find a hookup or a serious relationship. Filipino women have opened up in recent years about their views on love and relationships: both traditional perspectives, like commitment and courtship, remain popular; however, some Filipino women view love as something that ebbs and flows as well as something less structured than what was historically thought of. Westernization has certainly affected Pinoy dating behavior – Filipino women no longer shy away from expressing admiration openly in the manner of Westerners.
Filipino girl at the door. Photo by LoversBee. THX News.
Emotional Security: Feeling Valued
Filipino women dating looks for emotional security, which includes feelings of being valued. They like to be affirmed by those they love that their feelings matter and that they are appreciated. Validation can come in many forms, such as praise, intimate moments or just simply taking the time to listen and understand when Filipino women are in need of support. Our culture is all about appreciating each other and feeling connected with one another through meaningful conversations, open communication, and loving gestures. Filipino women value emotional security because it helps them feel connected to those they love and encourages lasting relationships built on mutual respect.
Pinoy Biogen. Photo by x i a n. Flickr.
Social Pressure: Pressure to Conform
Social pressure to fit in, or conform, is pervasive in today's dating culture. Pressure can come from friends, family, or the media – for instance, to conform by dating without regard for individual values and preferences, or only dating the types of people considered attractive by society. This type of social pressure can interfere with developing healthy relationships through dating and diminish feelings of self-worth. Nevertheless, it's important to remember that lasting love is based not on appearance or conformity with societal norms but rather on the true connection between two people who support and accept one another.
Philippines wedding day for Vanessa and Wally. Photo by Wally Slowik Jr. Flickr.
Desire to be Married
Pinoy dating culture has certainly developed quite a reputation over the years. Specifically, Filipino women are known to highly value marriage and family life, leading to an enormous amount of social pressure from parents and peers alike for Filipino women to be married by a certain age. This desire for marriage between Pinoy is so strong that many Filipino women claim their biggest fear in life is not getting married. Consequently, Pinoy singles often have difficulty talking openly about their single status or lack of partners due to this intense pressure.
Conclusion: Summary of Findings
The Filipino women dating culture is complex, influenced by both western and traditional values. Economic factors such as educational attainment, asset ownership, income level, and environmental influences all have an impact on opportunity and wealth. In addition to this economic outlook, emotional security in the form of feeling valued plays a big role in relationships for Filipino women. Unfortunately, social pressure can interfere with developing healthy relationships through dating which may lead to feelings of self-doubt or worthlessness. Finally, marriage is highly prized among Pinoy leading to intense social pressure from family members and peers alike to find a partner by a certain age. Understanding these cultural aspects will help anyone navigating their way around the Filipino dating scene be more successful! Sources: THX News, Pew Research & Statista. Read the full article
