(ZENIT News / Manila, 08.19.2024).- A recent survey conducted by Oculum Research and Analytics has unveiled that nearly half of Filipinos remain opposed to legalizing divorce, despite ongoing debates about its potential introduction. The study, which surveyed 1,200 individuals across the country from June 25 to 30, found that 49% of respondents are against the legalization of divorce, while only 30% expressed support.
The survey delved deeper into public opinion by exploring specific scenarios, such as divorce due to «irreconcilable differences.» Even in this context, public sentiment remained largely divided, with 42% opposing and 34% supporting the idea.
Dr. Racidon Bernarte, Oculum’s Director of Research, commented on the findings during a press briefing, noting the significant resistance to the concept of divorce in general. «The results indicate a substantial opposition to the broader acceptance of divorce in the Philippines,» Bernarte stated.
However, the study also highlighted a notable shift in opinion when divorce is considered in cases involving «abuse» within a marriage. In such situations, public support for divorce rose to 51%, with only 31% opposing it. Bernarte emphasized this point, stating, «Public opinion becomes more favorable towards divorce when it is framed within the context of abusive relationships.»
The survey, conducted in partnership with APCoRE, Areopagus Communications, Inc., and PressOne.PH, included face-to-face interviews with adults from various regions: 300 participants each from the National Capital Region, the rest of Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao. The study has a margin of error of ±3 percentage points and a 95% confidence level.
As the Philippines continues to grapple with the complex issue of divorce, these findings suggest that while there is some openness to the idea under specific circumstances, the majority of Filipinos remain hesitant to embrace its full legalization.
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