The sanctity of marriage

Image is mine
@Jenaisle (16043)
Philippines
July 24, 2025 5:40am CST
Because of divorce, marriages are now dissolved within months or even days. In an era marked by shifting social norms, increasing divorce rates, and evolving definitions of partnership, society has difficulty preserving and upholding the sanctity of marriage as a sacred, lifelong commitment between individuals. Sometimes, couples don't even try to resolve their differences before they decide to divorce. Should the traditional view of marriage that is often rooted in religious, cultural, and moral principles still hold authority in modern relationships, or should it adapt to contemporary values such as personal fulfillment and autonomy? Furthermore, premarital cohabitation, same-sex unions, and secular weddings also influence society’s perception of marriage’s spiritual and moral significance. In our country, divorce is still a taboo subject and is not recognized. Nevertheless, some lawmakers are pushing and campaigning for divorce to become legal in the country. I have a notion, some may have mistresses on the sidelines, waiting to be recognized . So, couples try to resolve their differences or simply tolerate each other for the sake of the children. Among Asian countries, it's only in the Philippines that divorce is not legal. The question now is, what responsibilities do individuals and communities have in preserving the sanctity of marriage? What are your thoughts on this issue?
6 people like this
7 responses
@Juliaacv (54173)
• Canada
24 Jul
Divorce became legal here, in Canada, in 1968. I married for love and for life, and I believe that many others do as well. But some do not, and that can contribute to the breakdown of a marriage, leading to divorce, or changes to one or the other partner during the marriage. I follow the rules of my faith, and divorce is strongly frowned upon, and I respect that fully. I can understand divorce should violence exist in the relationship.
3 people like this
@Jenaisle (16043)
• Philippines
24 Jul
I see. Violence should not exist in loving relationships. If it does, love flew out of the window then.
2 people like this
@LadyDuck (480733)
• Italy
24 Jul
Divorce became legal in Italy in 1971. It takes a very long time to divorce here. First the couple must live in two separate apartments during 5 years before being allowed to ask to divorce. This gives them plenty of time to consider their decision. I am for divorce, because some women (or men) are in a very sad marriage situation and they have the right to escape.
2 people like this
@Jenaisle (16043)
• Philippines
24 Jul
Even Italy, one of the predominantly Catholic countries, has accepted divorce. So, perhaps, we can too here in the Philippines in extreme cases.
2 people like this
@LadyDuck (480733)
• Italy
24 Jul
@Jenaisle Of course you are still married for the Church if you got married in Church. Only the Sacra Rota can "cancel" a marriage if the couple married in Church.
2 people like this
@Jenaisle (16043)
• Philippines
24 Jul
@LadyDuck I see.
2 people like this
• Philippines
25 Jul
It would seriously benefit a lot couples who are no longer together and have separate partners. They couldn't make annulment cheap anyways. Sadly, legalizing divorce would also create abuse. Like foreigners owning land if they get to marry and divorce them after, but that depends on the court.
1 person likes this
@Jenaisle (16043)
• Philippines
25 Jul
Now, that you've said, yes, that's another disadvantage of divorce becoming legal.
@jstory07 (145338)
• Roseburg, Oregon
25 Jul
Divorce should be legal everywhere. What if you married someone who beats you.
1 person likes this
@Jenaisle (16043)
• Philippines
25 Jul
Right, violence is a significant reason for divorce.
@rakski (145374)
• Philippines
25 Jul
Our country is very conservative and this topic is a very difficult one to discuss.
@LindaOHio (196637)
• United States
25 Jul
I had no idea that divorce was not legal in your country. I was married for 54 years. We married for life.
@rsa101 (39585)
• Philippines
25 Jul
This is a complex issue with no one-size-fits-all answer. The traditional view of marriage as a lifelong commitment offers stability and shared values, but modern relationships also emphasize personal growth and emotional well-being. While divorce shouldn’t be taken lightly, it can be necessary when a relationship becomes harmful or unworkable. Preserving the sanctity of marriage doesn’t mean forcing people to stay together, but encouraging relationships built on respect, honesty, and love. Communities should support healthy marriages and provide space for people to make the best choices for their lives—with compassion, not judgment.