Cynthia Villar Opposes Divorce Bill, Citing Her Happy Family Life

Senator Cynthia Villar has expressed her surprise and disapproval over the recent approval of a bill legalizing divorce by the House of Representatives, emphasizing her strong opposition to the measure due to her own positive family experiences.

"Syempre nagulat ako sa kanila," Villar said regarding the House's decision. She added, "Pero ako po, alam naman ng lahat I have a very happy family life, so I'm not in favor of divorce."

Villar's stance aligns her with other prominent senators, including Senate President Francis Escudero, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, Senator Joel Villanueva, and Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel, all of whom have voiced their opposition to the divorce bill.

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri also stated his disapproval, emphasizing his pro-family values. "Conservatibo akong mambabatas. Kung ika nga sa Amerika Republican ako, so pro-family... I frown on any bills that will separate our families," Zubiri explained. He added, "Ayaw po nating maging katulad ng mga Las Vegas weddings na bigla na lang mag-asawa tayo ngayon tapos kung ayaw natin hiwalay tayo sa susunod na buwan. Hindi dapat tama yun."

Zubiri believes that the divorce bill will be a matter of conscience for senators when it comes to voting. Meanwhile, Senators Sonny Angara and Bong Revilla are still reviewing the proposed legislation.

Currently, there are seven senators in favor and six against the divorce law, with two others still undecided. Senator Grace Poe has indicated her support for the bill but mentioned she would propose amendments to certain provisions. Senator JV Ejercito also mentioned he is leaning towards supporting the bill.

The Senate version of the divorce law, principally authored by Senators Risa Hontiveros, Raffy Tulfo, Robinhood Padilla, Pia Cayetano, and Imee Marcos, is pending its second reading in the Senate Plenary.

The debate over the divorce bill continues, with the Philippines remaining one of the few countries, alongside Vatican City, where divorce is not legally permitted.