By Billy Begas
Davao del Norte Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez on Tuesday said that his proposed Divorce law would help make Filipino workers more productive.
“On this Labor Day, we must remember that the well-being of Filipino workers extends beyond the workplace. We must ensure that our laws protect their rights in every aspect of their lives, including their personal relationships,” Alvarez said.
Alvarez also stressed the importance of recognizing the rights of Filipino workers, including the right to dissolve an unhappy, abusive, and toxic marriage.
“Divorce is a reality for many Filipino families, and it is time for us to acknowledge that reality and create a legal framework that reflects it,” said Alvarez, author of the proposed Absolute Divorce Act (House Bill 4998).
Based on records of the Philippine Statistics Authority, almost half of the country’s labor force is comprised of married individuals.
For those who are trapped in unhappy, abusive, and toxic marriages, the stress and emotional turmoil of their situation can have a profound impact on their ability to perform at work, Alvarez said.
He said workers in unhappy marriages are more likely to experience health problems, such as depression and anxiety, which can result in increased absenteeism and decreased productivity. Additionally, those who are in abusive relationships may struggle to maintain a steady work schedule due to physical injuries or emotional trauma.
“We cannot continue to deny our fellow Filipinos the right to a second chance at happiness, meaning, and fulfillment. As we celebrate Labor Day and honor the contributions of our hardworking citizens, let us also commit to creating a more just and compassionate society that values the well-being of all our people,” he added.
Alvarez believes that Filipino workers must be given the opportunity to end their marriages in a safe and legal manner to alleviate the emotional and psychological burdens that come with being trapped in an unhappy or abusive relationship.
