In light of the ongoing debate surrounding the proposed Absolute Divorce Act, actress Claudine Barretto has voiced her support for legalizing divorce in the Philippines.
Barretto took to Instagram to share her personal views, citing her own experience with the lengthy and painful annulment process.
House Bill (HB) 9349, also known as the Absolute Divorce Act, authored by Congressman Edcel Lagman of Albay, is close to becoming law. If passed, it would provide a less cumbersome alternative to annulment, which has long been the only legal recourse for dissolving marriages in the country.
Barretto, who separated from her husband Raymart Santiago in 2013, has been entangled in an annulment case for over a decade. Despite being apart for 11 years, the legal process remains unresolved, highlighting the inefficiency and emotional toll of annulments.
In her Instagram posts, Barretto shared two art cards expressing her support for divorce. The first read, “Divorce: Having the courage to choose how you’re going to spend the rest of your life,” while the second stated, “Divorce. The end of an error.” She captioned the posts with her personal insight: “Annulment is a very long, painful, & very Expensive [process]. Divorce gives you a second chance to right your wrongs. JUST MY OPINION.”
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Barretto’s comments underscore the potential benefits of divorce, particularly the reduced time and emotional strain compared to annulment. For many Filipinos, the drawn-out annulment process can prolong the pain of an already difficult situation.
As one of the few countries in the world without legal divorce, the Philippines faces growing calls for change. Annulments can be prohibitively expensive and time-consuming, making them inaccessible for many. Divorce, on the other hand, could offer a more straightforward and humane solution for couples whose marriages are beyond repair.
Barretto’s advocacy reflects the changing attitudes towards marriage and separation in the Philippines. While the ideal of lifelong marriage remains, the reality is that some relationships are untenable. For those in such situations, the option to divorce could provide a necessary lifeline, allowing them to rebuild their lives.
The ongoing debate over the Absolute Divorce Act signifies a potential shift in the country’s legal landscape. By speaking out, Barretto adds her voice to those calling for a more compassionate approach to marital dissolution, emphasizing the importance of personal well-being and second chances.
If enacted, the Absolute Divorce Act could offer a much-needed alternative for countless Filipinos, ensuring that they have the legal means to seek happiness and fulfillment after a failed marriage. Barretto’s public support underscores the importance of this legislative change and its potential impact on Filipino families.
