Manila: Three lawmakers on Thursday urged their colleagues at the House of Representatives to act decisively for the passage of a measure seeking to modernize and humanize the country's laws on marriage nullity and legal separation. Tingog Party-list Reps. Jude Acidre and Yedda Marie Romualdez, along with Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, earlier filed House Bill (HB) 10970, also known as the 'Declarations of Nullity of Marriage Reform Act,' which seeks to expand the grounds for nullity and legal separation. According to Philippines News Agency, the bill aims to simplify court procedures and recognize church declarations of nullity with corresponding civil effects. "Marriage is not just a mere contract; it is a profound institution recognized not only by our laws but by the very fabric of our society as the cornerstone of the family," Acidre said. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging that not all marriages fulfill their intended purpose, with some unraveling due to uncontrollable cir cumstances or being fundamentally flawed from the outset. Acidre highlighted that HB 10970 introduces reforms to address gaps in the Family Code of the Philippines, particularly the limited grounds currently available for nullity and legal separation. By recognizing additional causes such as psychological incapacity, lack of due discretion of judgment, and simulation of consent, the bill seeks to ensure that the legal framework reflects the realities faced by many Filipino couples. The proposed legislation targets marriages entered into for public policy violations, such as those pursued to gain immigration benefits, secure inheritance, or conceal unplanned pregnancies. By incorporating expanded grounds, the bill aims to bridge the gap between canonical and civil law, ensuring a more compassionate and equitable system for those in defective unions. A pivotal component of the bill is its recognition of church declarations of nullity, allowing these to carry civil effects. Acidre stated, "If a church can sol emnize marriages, it should also have the authority-within well-defined parameters-to nullify them, with corresponding civil effects." This provision respects the role of faith-based communities while eliminating the need for redundant and costly civil proceedings, offering individuals a more practical and dignified path forward. The bill also focuses on simplifying the legal process by placing cases under the Rules on Summary Procedure, significantly reducing the time and cost involved. For cases with clear evidence, such as fraud or simulated consent, an expedited process will be implemented to ensure swift resolution. Acidre remarked, "This isn't just about legal efficiency. It's about compassion. It's about recognizing that the law should serve people, not the other way around." To prevent abuse of these expanded provisions, the bill includes strict safeguards requiring courts to confirm that the grounds invoked are manifest and supported by substantial evidence. This measure ensures that the expanded g rounds cannot be misused or applied frivolously, preserving the integrity of the institution of marriage. Acidre clarified that this initiative is not about introducing divorce but about safeguarding the sanctity of marriage by addressing unions built on fraud, coercion, or deceit. He concluded by urging his colleagues to act with compassion and urgency on the bill, saying, "Let us work together to make this vision a reality-for the couples and families who are counting on us to act, and for a legal system that truly upholds the values of compassion and fairness."