Senate Considers Allowing Divorce in Catholic Country

The Philippine Senate is currently deliberating on the Absolute Divorce Bill, which was recently passed by the House of Representatives. This legislation aims to introduce divorce in a nation where it remains illegal, except for the Vatican. With approximately 80% of the population identifying as Catholic, the bill represents a significant shift in the country’s legal landscape regarding marriage dissolution. Historically, the Philippines has prohibited divorce, a stance rooted in the Spanish Civil Code and reinforced by the Catholic Church's teachings on the sanctity of marriage. Following independence from Spain in 1898, the country briefly allowed divorce under American colonial rule. However, the Catholic Church regained influence, leading to the prohibition of divorce in 1950. Although a presidential decree in 1977 permitted divorce for Muslims, other religious groups have remained without such legal recourse. The current divorce bill outlines specific circumstances under which divorce could be granted, addressing the lengthy and costly annulment process that many Filipinos face. As societal attitudes shift, there is increasing support for the legalization of divorce, reflecting a growing demand for more accessible options for marital dissolution. If the Senate approves the bill, it is expected to face constitutional challenges in the Supreme Court, highlighting the ongoing tension between evolving social norms and traditional religious values in the Philippines.