Redefining Families: The Potential Impact of Divorce Legalization in the Philippines

Document Types

Paper Presentation

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Family, Relations, and Social Structure (FRS)

School Name

Berkeley School, Inc.

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Astudillo, Alfonso III, B.

Start Date

25-6-2026 10:30 AM

End Date

25-6-2026 12:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Online - https://zoom.us/j/95274188371?pwd=bXhb7DQU3HQbLltdMsVaoT4A5iwGBr.1 Meeting ID: 952 7418 8371 | Passcode: research

Abstract/Executive Summary

The Philippines is one of the few countries where divorce is legally unavailable; instead, marriages may be addressed through declaration of nullity, annulment, or legal separation. Declaration of nullity recognizes a marriage as void from the beginning, while annulment dissolves a marriage due to defects existing at the time it was contracted. Conversely, legal separation allows spouses to live apart without dissolving the marriage. To explore the potential impact of divorce legalization on Filipino families and individuals, the study examined: the social, emotional, and economic challenges faced in irreparable marriages under current laws; how it may affect the dynamics of a family, the anticipated benefits and drawbacks on the personal well-being, and societal norms. To answer these questions, the study used a qualitative phenomenological approach. In gathering data, the researchers interviewed lawyers, teachers, pastors, and guidance counselors. Interpretative Phenomenological Approach (IPA) was used to delve into the data further. The researchers found that divorce provided spouses greater freedom and independence, but may affect children emotionally and psychologically. Strong social stigma and economic constraints also often pressured couples to remain in irreparable marriages, while psychological counseling remained limited. Overall, families in irreparable marriages experienced social, emotional, and economic challenges. Legalizing divorce could change family dynamics and protect those exposed to abuse or conflict within the family, and their well-being. Nonetheless, potential drawbacks include the risk of misuse, premature dissolution of marriages, financial and caregiving burdens on single parents, and emotional damage to children and extended family members.

Keywords

separation; family dynamics; children; couples; broken families

Statement of Originality

yes

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Jun 25th, 10:30 AM Jun 25th, 12:00 PM

Redefining Families: The Potential Impact of Divorce Legalization in the Philippines

The Philippines is one of the few countries where divorce is legally unavailable; instead, marriages may be addressed through declaration of nullity, annulment, or legal separation. Declaration of nullity recognizes a marriage as void from the beginning, while annulment dissolves a marriage due to defects existing at the time it was contracted. Conversely, legal separation allows spouses to live apart without dissolving the marriage. To explore the potential impact of divorce legalization on Filipino families and individuals, the study examined: the social, emotional, and economic challenges faced in irreparable marriages under current laws; how it may affect the dynamics of a family, the anticipated benefits and drawbacks on the personal well-being, and societal norms. To answer these questions, the study used a qualitative phenomenological approach. In gathering data, the researchers interviewed lawyers, teachers, pastors, and guidance counselors. Interpretative Phenomenological Approach (IPA) was used to delve into the data further. The researchers found that divorce provided spouses greater freedom and independence, but may affect children emotionally and psychologically. Strong social stigma and economic constraints also often pressured couples to remain in irreparable marriages, while psychological counseling remained limited. Overall, families in irreparable marriages experienced social, emotional, and economic challenges. Legalizing divorce could change family dynamics and protect those exposed to abuse or conflict within the family, and their well-being. Nonetheless, potential drawbacks include the risk of misuse, premature dissolution of marriages, financial and caregiving burdens on single parents, and emotional damage to children and extended family members.

https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2026/BoA_FRS/4