Why do wives in San Pablo lakes sail the raft?

In most Filipino families, it's the husband who works outside and the wife who stays home.

But in San Pablo, Laguna, it's the opposite.

This I discovered when we visited the 7 Lakes of San Pablo. We witnessed something unusual: Wives — young and old — sailing bamboo rafts for tourists.

They are the captains. They are the guides. They manage the whole operation.

And where are their husbands? At home, doing the household chores.

Wives paddle, assist tourists, and show them the beauty of the lake with a big smile.

We had one in the boat we took as we roomed around Pandin Lake. I couldn't contain my cusriosity, so I asked: "Why did you and your husbands exchange roles?"

One wife smiled and answered:

"Because we value respect and decency here."

She explained that many tourists, especially from Western countries, board the raft wearing skimpy bikinis. Some even go nude in the middle of the lake.

And the men of San Pablo respect women that much — they don't want to look, they don't want to take advantage of that sight. So they let their wives do the job.

And the wives? They seem to love it. They happily perform the task. They willingly attend to every request as the bamboo raft sails slowly in the middle of the peaceful lake.

It's not just about livelihood.

It's about respect.

Have you seen this in San Pablo? What do you think about this beautiful tradition?