Gender-Based Accommodation Preferences of Higher Education Students in Davao del Norte, the Philippines

Abstract

Gender inclusivity in student accommodations is paramount for fostering equitable living conditions. This study explores the gender dynamics among the higher education student accommodation providers in a municipality of Davao del Norte, Philippines, highlighting the reasons behind these preferences and their impact on gender equality. Through a qualitative descriptive analysis, this study utilized primary and secondary data. Secondary data are collected from the lists of student accommodations provided by the local government office. The primary data are taken from interviewing ten student accommodation owners or managers. The study identified three main types of gender preferences in student accommodations: those for girls only, those exclusive to the gender binary, and those open to all. Decisions regarding these accommodations were influenced by personal beliefs, adherence to institutional guidelines, and underlying gender biases. Also, the findings highlight the persistence of gender-based inequality in housing, with particularly significant implications for LGBTQIA+ students. These emphasize the need for more inclusive policies and practices to create supportive environments for all students, thereby promoting gender sensitivity and reducing discrimination. The study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 5 and 10, aiming to end discrimination and ensure equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender identity or expression.

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