Philippine Court Recognizes Property Rights for Same-Sex Couples

In a groundbreaking decision, the Philippine Supreme Court has ruled that same-sex couples can be legally recognized as co-owners of property, marking the first application of Article 148 of the Family Code to protect LGBT property rights in the conservative Catholic nation.

The ruling stemmed from a dispute between two women who had jointly purchased a house in suburban Manila. When disagreements arose over selling the property, one partner sought legal recourse to divide their assets. Despite initial rejections by lower courts, the Supreme Court reversed these decisions on February 5, citing documented evidence that both parties had contributed equally to the acquisition and renovation costs.

Justice Marvic Leonen emphasized that Article 148, which governs property relations for cohabiting couples unable to legally marry, does not discriminate based on gender. He argued that restricting its application would render certain legitimate intimate relationships "legally invisible." Justice Amy Lazaro Javier further noted that the provision must reflect "prevailing values in modern society" and address the unjustified disparity in treatment between heterosexual and homosexual couples. The court also urged lawmakers to comprehensively address the broader legal needs of same-sex couples in the Philippines.