ALYSSA HAZELS M. STA.

ANA
Intro:
This bill seeks to introduce divorce in Philippine law with a strong sense of confidence that it will be used
responsibly by Filipino couples. This confidence stems from the experiences of Filipino families that show
that separation is usually the last resort of many Filipino couples whose marriage has failed. Cases of
battered women also support this. Battered women invariably seek separation only after several years of
trying to make the marriage work; separation only becomes imperative for them when they realize that it is
necessary for them and their childrens survival. Divorce could actually provide protection to battered
women and their children from further violence and abuse. With the predominance of the Catholic faith in
the Philippines, the fear that divorce will erode personal values on marriage appears unfounded. The
experience of Italy, where the Vatican is located, and Spain, 2 predominantly Catholic countries which
practice divorce, supports this. Those countries have low rate of divorce. Italy registers a 7% rate while
Spain registers 15%. The figures reflect the strong influence of religious beliefs and culture on individuals in
deciding to terminate marital relations.
Failed, unhappy marriages
In their explanatory note to House Bill No. 1799, Ilagan and De Jesus said their divorce proposal was in line
with the policy of the State to protect and strengthen marriage and the family as basic social institutions.
Reality tells us that there are many failed, unhappy marriages across all Filipino classes, they said. Many
couples, especially from the marginalized sectors who have no access to the courts, simply end up
separating without the benefit of legal processes.
The two lawmakers said cultural prescriptions and religious norms keep many couples together despite the
breakdown of their marriages.

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People who say YES to Divorce Law
Ricardo Penson: "I would push for divorce because annulment is just another term for divorce.
There's not much difference. People may hide behind some moral veil but believe me, it's one and
the same." (statement at ANC's 'Harapan 2013')

people who say Yes to divorce law
Risa Hontiveros: "We should talk about it. The current situation is not good enough especially in
situations of wife battering or when children are beat up, marital rape, and incest I believe
harmonious societies start with harmonious families." (statement at UP's 'The Rundown' debate)