Quezon city: Same-sex couples who live together may be recognized as co-owners of properties under the Family Code as long as their individual contributions can be proven, according to a Supreme Court ruling.

According to Philippines News Agency, in a 14-page decision promulgated on February 5 and made public Tuesday, the Supreme Court's 2nd Division granted a petition filed by one partner against her former partner, ruling that the petitioner owns 50 percent of a house and lot they shared. The court acknowledged the existence of co-ownership, allowing each co-owner the right to demand partition of the property concerning their share.

The same-sex couple had lived together and purchased a house and lot in Quezon City, agreeing to register the property under only one name to facilitate bank transactions. After their separation, they initially agreed to sell the property. The registered owner, however, later refused to sell and retracted her acknowledgment of co-ownership, leading the other partner to file a complaint.

The Supreme Court's decision reversed earlier rulings by the Regional Trial Court and the Court of Appeals. It highlighted that property rights for same-sex couples can be recognized even without marriage, pending the enactment of stronger laws. The court emphasized the need for broader solutions to come from legislative action by Congress, shaped through public discussion and advocacy.

The ruling noted the complex political, moral, and cultural dimensions of the issue and called for involvement from political departments, especially Congress, to find solutions that balance interests while respecting fundamental freedoms.