A few schools have a seventh year of elementary education. Four years of high school follow for 70 percent of all children. One year of military training is included in the high school curriculum. Graduation is at age 16 or 17. Many go on to college or vocational training.
Women enjoy the same access to education as men.
The extended family is the basic social unit, and more than one generation often live together n the same household. Many Filipinos work overseas to earn money for the extended family back at home. Recipients of such aid are expected to return help when possible or necessary. Or they may work to help find employment or opportunities for relatives within the country. Filipino women generally enjoy equality with men, holding government, business, and industry positions.