If you are a Filipino citizen who was married to a foreigner and has since obtained a divorce abroad, you likely know that divorce is not technically "legal" within Philippine borders.
Understanding the judicial recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines is essential for any Filipino looking to update their civil status and regain the capacity to remarry.
What is the Recognition of Foreign Divorce in the Philippines?
Because there is no absolute divorce law in the Philippines, a Filipino citizen cannot simply file for divorce.
To be legally considered single again, you must file a petition for recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines.
What You Need to Prepare
The court requires "prima facie" evidence of the foreign divorce and the foreign law that allows it.
Essential Documents Include:
The Foreign Divorce Decree: This must be an authentic copy issued by the foreign court or authority.
Apostilled/Authenticated Copy of the Foreign Divorce Law: Evidence that the divorce is valid under the foreign spouse's national legislation.
PSA Marriage Contract: The official record of the marriage divorce in us recognized in philippines you are seeking to dissolve.
Identification Documents: Valid passports and birth records.
The Process: How to Recognize Foreign Divorce in the Philippines
Navigating the judicial system involves several critical phases: petition for recognition of foreign divorce philippines
Engagement of a Lawyer: Since this is a judicial process, legal representation is mandatory.
Filing the Petition: The case is filed in the province or city where the petitioner foreign divorce philippines resides or where the marriage was recorded.
Trial and Evidence: You (or your representative) will present the evidence of the divorce and the foreign law.
Judgment and Registration: Once the court grants the petition, the decree must be registered with the recognition of foreign divorce philippines PSA and the Civil Registrar.
Cost of Recognition of Foreign Divorce in the Philippines
Budgeting recognition of foreign divorce philippines for this legal procedure is vital for Filipinos living abroad.
Costs typically include:
Attorney’s Fees: This is usually the largest portion of the expense.
Court Costs: Standard administrative fees for filing a civil case.
Publication Costs: The law requires the petition to be published in a newspaper of general circulation.
Translation and Authentication: For documents not in English or issued by non-Apostille countries.
Final Thoughts
Securing a judicial recognition of foreign divorce in the Philippines is the only way to ensure your legal records are accurate.