House Deputy Majority Leader Jude Acidre is proposing an alternative to the pending divorce bill in the House of Representatives, advocating for a more streamlined process for marriage annulment.
Expressing his opposition to divorce, Acidre cited constitutional considerations, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage as an institution. He stated, “I am against divorce because I believe that the constitution considers marriage as an inviolable institution. I believe that societal order and stability in our country are founded upon the notion that marriage is lifelong.”
In response to concerns about problematic marriages, Acidre acknowledged the need for solutions but maintained his stance against divorce. He argued, “How would marriage be different from a partnership if there is a way out? If husband and wife can break up then you redefine marriage.”
Rather than supporting divorce, Acidre proposed a “radically simplified annulment process.” He pointed out that the Catholic Church has already made its annulment process more accessible and nearly free of charge, broadening the grounds for annulment. Acidre aims to align civilian annulment procedures with those of the church.
The legislative process on House Bill 9349, the proposed absolute divorce law, has been paused as the House entered its summer break. The bill is currently in the period of interpellation and debate, awaiting further deliberation.