MANILA, Aug. 26, 2015— Catholic bishops on Wednesday lamented that an impending “partial divorce” law is a step closer towards legalizing divorce.
The House of Representatives on Monday approved on third and final reading a bill that allows Filipinos to remarry if their foreigner spouses obtained a decree of absolute divorce from a foreign court.
Archbishop Ramon Arguelles of Lipa said it is a “prelude” to proposals for the legalization of divorce in Asia’s predominantly Catholic nation.
“Everyone should understand that deception is not over,” Arguelles said.
“Before the reproductive health bill was forced into becoming a law, its proponents claimed that divorce, same-sex unions, and abortion are not related to RH policy,” he said.
Bishop Arturo Bastes of Sorsogon, it is a “dangerous” measure which can contribute to the breakdown of families.
For his part, Bishop Honesto Ongtioco of Cubao said the Church remains firm in its stand against divorce.
“The teachings of the Catholic Church does not change even if some people would advocate change,” he said.
Apart from the Vatican, the Philippines is the only country in the world without divorce. (CBCPNews)