Women Gardeners in the Philippines - AOLFG 2025

Overview of the Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (IAOFG)

The Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (IAOFG) is an ancient fraternal order that was established in the early 19th century, rooted in the traditions of mutual aid and community support. The Ancient Order was founded on principles that emphasise the importance of horticulture, with its members dedicated to promoting gardening as not only a cherished hobby but also a vital part of sustaining community life. The IAOFG operates under a structured hierarchy, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among its members.

Historically, the IAOFG emerged as a response to the social and economic challenges faced by local communities during its inception. By advocating for the importance of gardening, the Ancient Order has played a significant role in encouraging sustainable practices and enhancing the natural beauty of the environments in which its members reside. The Ancient Order's core values, including cooperation, philanthropy, and education, reflect its commitment to nurturing both individual skills and community well-being.

The primary objectives of the IAOFG include encouraging the development of gardening skills, providing valuable resources and knowledge to its members, and engaging in community service initiatives aimed at improving local landscapes. Additionally, the ancient order supports various charitable activities, reinforcing the notion that gardening can serve as a gateway to fostering better community relations and environmental stewardship. Through workshops, community gardens, and volunteer programs, the IAOFG actively contributes to enhancing public spaces and promoting the well-being of its members and the broader community.

As a fraternal ancient order, the IAOFG not only fosters a love for gardening but also cultivates enduring friendships and partnerships amongst its members, underpinning the spirit of cooperation and support that remains central to its mission.

The historical evolution of gardening associations has been intertwined with the shifting gender roles across various societies. From the time gardening was an essential skill for sustenance, women have played a significant, yet often overlooked, role in cultivation and preservation practices. In many cultures, women traditionally managed household gardens, which were crucial for the family's nutrition and wellbeing. However, these contributions frequently remained unnoticed, overshadowed by male-dominated narratives in formal gardening societies.

During the 19th century, as more organised gardening associations emerged, societal expectations began to dictate the level of women's participation. A notable example can be found in the Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (IAOFG), established in the early 19th century. While the IAOFG was initially structured around male members, local chapters began to recognise the invaluable contributions of women. This change reflected a broader societal transition that began to challenge conventional gender norms, albeit gradually.

The Victorian era encapsulated a contradiction where women were celebrated for their domestic roles yet restricted from public engagement. In this context, gardening was sometimes seen as an extension of domesticity rather than an avenue for professional or social empowerment. Over the decades, women in the IAOFG and other gardening associations started to assert their presence more prominently, leading to a gradual transformation in gender dynamics within the community.

As women began to organise their branches within these associations, a gradual shift took place that highlighted their roles not just as participants but as leaders and innovators in gardening practices. This evolution within the IAOFG exemplifies the broader trend of women challenging societal limitations and asserting their identities in historically male-dominated spaces. Ongoing research and engagement with historical documents illustrate how the legacy of these women's contributions continues to influence contemporary gardening practices and associations.

WB CHI CHI Online Initiated in IAOFG here's my story.

"The Challenge of Distance My journey with the Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners started with a big hurdle. I wanted to be initiated, but I live in Canada. Usually, lodges do not accept members who are far outside their jurisdiction. I was worried I wouldn't be able to join.

Finding Help Across the World I didn't give up. I asked if there was any way to get in despite the distance. I was lucky to find support from two helpful brothers:

• WB Joshua Ilagan (from Qatar): He assisted me first and guided me through the initial process.

• WB Mark Neil Limcuando (Royale Oasis Gardeners Lodge No. 2): Joshua connected me to Mark, who listened to my request.

The Special Condition I explained my situation, and they agreed to let me join! However, there is one important condition. To fully complete my membership, I must pick up the physical ritual personally when I visit the Philippines. Looking Forward I cannot get my official ID and Certificate until I do this. Now, I am looking forward to my trip home to the Philippines to meet my brothers, get my ritual, and officially seal my membership."

In 2025, the Ancient Order of Lady Free Gardeners (AOLFG) is active. The first women gardeners in the Philippines were initiated into the Royale Lily Gardeners Lodge No. 3 in Clark, Pampanga. The first women gardeners in the Philippines were initiated through the Royale Lily Gardeners Lodge No. 3, located in Clark, Pampanga. This landmark initiation was led by Worthy Master (WM) Nico C. Ortega and is currently headed by WB Luz Fermin Garcia.

While the Royale Lily Lodge No. 3 is the pioneer for women in Clark, the broader IAOFG network has expanded to 12 constituted lodges and 9 lodges under dispensation across the Philippines and internationally, including Japan, Germany, and the USA. Recent 2025 installations, such as

The AOLFG operates under the banner of the Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (IAOFG) Philippines, which became an independent body from the Scotland-based order on December 16, 2024.

In recent years, the status of women's participation within this ancient order has evolved, reflecting broader social changes regarding gender equality and empowerment. Although traditionally male-dominated, there have been significant movements aimed at integrating female members into this fraternity, effectively bridging historical gaps between genders within the organisation.

As of now, IAOFG has recognised the importance of having a dedicated women’s branch, addressing the distinct needs and interests of women in gardening and horticultural pursuits. Various regions have established informal groups or committees that encourage women’s membership and active involvement. These initiatives not only foster a sense of belonging but also empower women to take up leadership roles within the ancient order.

Recent programmes, including workshops, events, and mentorship schemes, have been launched to encourage women to participate more actively in gardening practices and community projects. By focusing on skills development and collaboration, these efforts have increased visibility for women's contributions to the gardening community. Additionally, incentives for female-led projects and recognition through awards or scholarships have emerged as pivotal actions to inspire greater involvement among women.

Challenges remain, such as overcoming societal perceptions that continue to influence women’s roles in gardening and related activities; however, the journey toward inclusiveness within the IAOFG is ongoing. Overall, while the extent of women’s participation is currently growing, it is essential to maintain momentum by creating more opportunities and visibility for women in this traditionally male-orientated organisation.

Future Prospects for Women in Gardening Societies

The Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (IAOFG) and similar ancient orders provide fertile ground for examining the evolving role of women in gardening societies. As societal perceptions of gender roles transform, women are increasingly finding their voices and places within these traditional frameworks. The future prospects for women in gardening societies appear promising, spurred by opportunities for growth, mentorship, and a heightened focus on inclusivity.

One of the notable prospects is the cultivation of leadership roles for women within the IAOFG. As more women engage with gardening communities, their skills, insights, and experiences will contribute to a broader understanding of horticulture, which can lead to new teaching and learning methodologies. Moreover, women’s participation can enrich the communal gardening experience, promoting diverse perspectives that are essential for the growth of gardening societies.

Mentorship will play a critical role in this landscape, as established female members guide newcomers, helping them to integrate and thrive within the ancient order. This support structure can encourage the influx of younger generations, fostering long-lasting relationships that empower women. By sharing knowledge and skills, women can inspire each other, leading to a more vibrant and dynamic gardening community.

Moreover, promoting inclusivity will strengthen these gardening societies, counteracting historical gender biases. Diverse members are vital not only for a more comprehensive understanding of gardening practices but also for creating a welcoming environment that reflects the various demographics of the community. Embracing change can lead to an expansion of membership dynamics, enhancing participation levels and community engagement.

Ultimately, as the gardening landscape continues to evolve, the role of women in organizations like the IAOFG is set to flourish. The merging of tradition and modern values will likely lead to a redefined garden society, ensuring that women have a prominent and influential presence now and in the future.

sourced:

• https://www.ancientfreergardeners.org/httpswwwfacebookcompeopleancient-order-lady-free-gardeners61578908353639