The Philippines, the only country in the world apart from Vatican City where divorce is illegal, might soon see a change in legislation. The Absolute Divorce Bill, passed by the House of Representatives, awaits approval in the Senate to potentially end the ban on divorce in the predominantly Catholic nation. Despite opposition from conservative lawmakers backed by the Catholic Church, the bill has gathered support in the parliament.
Currently, the country only allows legal separation and annulment, with complex and expensive procedures. The new bill aims to broaden the grounds for divorce, including physical abuse, infidelity, coercion into prostitution, abandonment, and more. A recent survey shows growing public support for the bill, with 50% in favor.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed his support for the divorce law. The bill’s principal author, Edcel Lagman, remains optimistic about its passage. However, challenges lie ahead, with expected opposition from anti-divorce groups and the possibility of a Supreme Court challenge. Despite these obstacles, efforts to legalize divorce in the Philippines continue.
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