Abstract:
The study examines the gendered dynamic of caregiving, focusing on the low-income mothers
who simultaneously assume the roles of being the primary provider of care at home and as a
‘bantay’ for their hospitalized children at East Avenue Medical Center. (EAMC). It explores their
caregiving experiences and perceptions on the nurse-to-patient ratio, uncovering how these shape
their caregiving practices and roles. Qualitative narrative inquiry was employed, using in-depth
interviews to center the personal stories and insights of the bantay mothers. Key findings reveal
that the challenges they face are not only rooted in their care responsibilities shaped by the
cultural norms and values in their immediate environment, but are further exacerbated with the
country’s lack of supportive policies that cater to their evolving needs. Furthermore, the study
highlights how the quantity of medical staff can potentially result in greater caregiving roles for
mothers. However, the commitment of nurses to provide quality care despite resource constraints
helps mitigate this challenge. Ultimately, the study aims for systemic changes to address gender
inequalities in caregiving and advocate for greater recognition of the roles nurses, and most
especially the bantays’ within the Philippine healthcare system.
