THE HOUSE of Representatives’ recent passage of the Absolute Divorce Bill (House Bill 9349) on second reading has reignited the national divorce discussion.
This critical milestone, reached by voice voting in a plenary session, moves the nation closer to giving couples stuck in unworkable marriages a legal option.
The Philippines, along with the Vatican, stands as a unique exception in the world, where divorce remains prohibited. This legislative stance, increasingly out of step with the realities of modern life, is deeply rooted in conservative and religious traditions.
To address this, House Bill 9349 proposes a more streamlined and compassionate process for ending marriages that are beyond repair.
The foundation of the case for legalizing divorce is the idea of personal freedom and human rights. Every person needs to be granted the independence to make important life decisions, such as the freedom to end a marriage that is not beneficial to them. Respecting one’s agency and dignity is essential to maintaining one’s freedom and is consistent with contemporary human rights norms.
Moreover, divorce is a crucial safety net for those trapped in abusive or harmful relationships. The current legal framework often fails to protect individuals suffering in silence.
Legalizing divorce offers a pathway to safety and a fresh start, potentially reducing the societal costs associated with domestic violence and mental health issues. This legal provision is essential for the spouses and their children, who are often the silent victims of such tumultuous environments.
The welfare of children is a significant concern in discussions about divorce. While some argue that children fare better in intact families, research suggests that a peaceful, stable environment is far more beneficial than one filled with constant conflict.
When handled properly, divorce can protect kids from continuing conflict in the marriage and give them a loving atmosphere to develop and flourish.
From a cultural standpoint, it is critical to accept that not all marriages work out and to offer a respectful method of handling these circumstances. Legalizing divorce will improve social health by reducing the number of domestic abuse cases and stress-related illnesses, which will increase productivity and happiness among the populace.
Justice and fairness on an ethical level are equally crucial in this discussion. Divorce laws guarantee that every male or female citizen has an equal chance to pursue happiness and personal development.
Because of their economic reliance and social expectations, women have historically been more susceptible to abusive marriages; therefore, this is especially powerful for them. Permitting divorce can result in increased financial autonomy and progress, enabling people to follow their professional and educational objectives. (To be continued)/PN
