Senators JV and Jinggoy Ejercito Take Opposing Stances on Controversial Divorce Bill

janimonow

May 28

Half-brothers and senators JV Ejercito and Jinggoy Estrada find themselves on opposing sides regarding the proposed absolute divorce bill currently being debated in the Philippines.

JV Ejercito's Support for the Divorce Bill

Senator JV Ejercito has expressed his support for the divorce bill despite his Roman Catholic upbringing, which traditionally opposes divorce. Ejercito acknowledges the church's defense of marriage sanctity but also recognizes the plight of many Filipino couples trapped in dysfunctional marriages.

"I understand the defense of the Church of the sanctity of marriage, but I also know that a lot of Filipino couples are trapped in loveless and unworkable marriages. It is not their fault," said Ejercito. "As a representative of the people and a Catholic, I am currently in the process of discernment. I intend to listen and actively participate in the deliberation in the Senate. I am leaning at this time to be in favor."

Jinggoy Estrada's Opposition

On the other hand, Senator Jinggoy Estrada has voiced his opposition to the divorce bill, suggesting instead that the process for nullifying marriages be improved. Estrada believes that refining the grounds for nullity of marriage could be a more acceptable alternative.

"I have been and still am not in favor of legalizing divorce in our country. Instead of pushing for an absolute divorce law, which is proscribed by the Constitution, perhaps a bill with a well-defined ground for nullifying a marriage would be a much-welcomed alternative," Estrada stated. He also referenced his previous legislative efforts, "I filed a bill during the 15th Congress defining certain indications of psychological incapacity as a ground for the declaration of nullity of marriage."

Senate President's Viewpoint

Newly-elected Senate President Chiz Escudero has also weighed in, preferring to make the existing annulment process more affordable and accessible rather than introducing divorce legislation. Escudero assured a balanced discussion in the Senate despite his personal preference.

House Approval and Bill Provisions

The House of Representatives approved the controversial divorce bill on its final reading on May 22, with 131 lawmakers in favor and 109 against. If passed into law, the bill would allow couples to file for divorce under several grounds, including legal separation, annulment, prolonged separation, psychological incapacity, and domestic abuse.

Grounds for Filing Divorce:

Legal separation under Article 55 of the Family Code of the Philippines
Annulment of marriage under Article 45 of the Family Code of the Philippines
Separation of the spouses for at least five years with no reconciliation in sight
Psychological incapacity as provided in Article 36 of the Family Code of the Philippines
Domestic or marital abuse, including acts under RA No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004)