Gearing Towards Gender Equality: Insights from Female Police Officers in their Experiences at Their Workplaces

Abstract

Addressing the experiences and promoting gender equality in law enforcement is crucial not only for the well-being of women officers but also for creating safer and more just communities for all. This study explored the insights of the female police officers in their experiences at their workplace towards gender equality in the province of Misamis Occidental during the year 2023. Descriptive phenomenology was the research design used in the study. Seven women police officers participated in the study, who were chosen using purposive sampling. An in-depth interview was done to gather data using interview guide questions. The participants’ responses were transcribed, coded, and organized to form themes based on the study’s objective using NVivo software. Data were then analyzed and interpreted using Moustaka’s steps of data analysis. Results revealed that majority of the women police officers were at the age middle age married with the rank of police corporal. Moreover, their insights resulted to seven themes: handling gender based-cases, being given simpler work and belittle in their competence, desiring to perform male tasks, having lesser opportunities in leadership and promotion, using varied coping mechanisms in dealing with gender inequality; the need for equal treatment and opportunities, and aspiring for support system, clubs, programs, and laws to empower women. Female police officers have to be provided with opportunities for professional growth and development by ensuring that female police officers have equal access to leadership positions, training, and promotional opportunities, establishing support systems, clubs, and programs that empower and promote the advancement of women in law enforcement; and advocating for laws and policies that protect the rights and promote the advancement of women in law.