Quezon City (Philippines). On 22 September 2024, a parent meeting was held in Cubao, Quezon City, at the Laura Vicuña Foundation (LVF) of St. Mary D. Mazzarello Province (FIL), which addresses the needs and problems of at-risk boys and girls, on the theme: “Forever vs. Divorce.”
The participants – about a hundred parents from the FMA centers of Mabalacat, Pampanga, Canlubang, Laguna, Sta. Mesa, Manila, and the LVF communities of Cubao, Quezon City – gathered to reflect on how the divorce law, recently approved by the House and still to be approved by the Senate of the Philippines, could have an impact on the family. The proposal, in fact, aims to recognize divorce in the country – the only one in the world together with the Vatican – that currently recognizes marriage as indissoluble, admitting only the nullity decreed by the canonical tribunals in cases of serious shortcomings.
The event opened with a greeting from Sister Maria Victoria Santa Ana, FMA, CEO of the Foundation, who emphasized the importance of the family as the foundation of society. She then shared the touching story of a couple whose separation led to lasting suffering for their children, highlighting the profound and often hidden consequences of failed marriages.
Speakers, Mr. Relly and Mrs. Myrna Baclit, and moderator, Ms. Carol Monz Thor, delved into concepts such as the sanctity of marriage, the challenges families face, and the growing reality of divorce in Philippine society.
Mr. Relly Baclit reminded the participants that marriage is not a simple contract, but a covenant sealed by God, which requires sacrifice and love. His wife, Myrna Baclit, emphasized the power of forgiveness and reconciliation, encouraging couples to pray and work through commitment and sacrifice, rather than easily opting for divorce.
Lyn, a resident of Laura Vicuña Center in Cubao, was touched by the personal story of those present. Coming from a broken home, she and her siblings were separated and plunged into poverty as a result of their parents’ separation. Her story shed light on the emotional and financial toll separation can have on children.
Discussions in the groups were filled with empathy, marked by the contrast between the traditional Catholic view of marriage and the concrete realities that sometimes lead couples to separation. While many participants supported the belief of ‘forever,’ the conversation opened up a space for compassion and understanding that separation, and eventually divorce, may be a necessary fallback for some.
The event coincided with Philippine Family Week, a nationwide initiative that promotes the unity and strength of families. In light of the divorce bill, Sister Maria Victoria concluded the Congress by recalling the enduring power of love, forgiveness, and faith in keeping families strong. She urged the participants not to embrace the proposed divorce bill and instead adhere to Christian values while facing the complexities of modern life.
The LVF Parents’ Congress 2024 served as a reminder that, although legislative changes may change the marriage landscape, the heart of the Filipino family – rooted in faith and a covenant of love sealed by God – remains as vital as ever. The event concluded with the Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Rey Paglinawan and a shared meal, a further sign of the closeness and support of the Laura Vicuña Foundation to families.
