BREAKING: The Supreme Court of the Philippines has just confirmed a landmark ruling, granting same-sex partners co-ownership rights to property acquired during their relationship. This decision, announced on February 5, 2025, marks a significant shift in legal recognition for same-sex couples living together in the Philippines.
The Court’s Second Division held that under Article 148 of the Family Code, same-sex partners can be recognized as co-owners of properties, provided they can demonstrate actual financial contributions. This ruling is especially critical as it comes amidst ongoing debates surrounding LGBTQ+ rights in the country, where same-sex marriage remains unrecognized.
In the case, identified as G.R. No. 267469, the dispute arose between former partners over a residential property exclusively registered in one partner’s name. After their separation, the other partner claimed she had contributed significantly to the property’s purchase and renovation. Lower courts initially dismissed her claims due to inadequate proof of contribution. However, the Supreme Court reversed these decisions, emphasizing the importance of evidence in property disputes.
Associate Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez clarified that co-ownership is determined by actual contributions of money, property, or labor, with each partner’s share proportional to their input. A signed acknowledgment from the registered owner, admitting that the other partner covered nearly half of the acquisition and renovation costs, was deemed sufficient evidence of co-ownership.
Public reaction to this ruling has been swift. Notable figures such as singer-actor Ice Seguerra and filmmaker Liza Diño, both advocates for LGBTQ+ rights, expressed their support, highlighting the ruling’s potential to empower same-sex couples in the Philippines. They emphasized that while the legal framework for marriage remains unchanged, this decision provides essential clarity on property rights for cohabiting partners.
This ruling is a crucial step forward in the ongoing fight for equality and recognition of same-sex relationships in the Philippines. It signals to lower courts that property disputes involving same-sex couples can now be resolved under existing civil law provisions, reinforcing the need for evidence-based judgments.
As the legal landscape continues to evolve, this decision opens the door for more significant discussions about rights and recognition for LGBTQ+ individuals in the region. Observers are closely watching how this ruling will impact future cases and the broader conversation about marriage equality in the Philippines.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. This ruling is not only a legal milestone but a beacon of hope for many seeking recognition and fairness in their relationships.
