MANILA (October 25) — The Supreme Court (SC) is establishing a centralized repository of foreign laws on divorce and the nullity or annulment of marriage to help Filipinos, particularly overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), seek recognition of foreign divorce decisions in Philippine courts.
According to a press release published on the official Supreme Court website, the SC, the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA), and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement on October 21, 2026, at the SC En Banc Session Hall in Manila.
The initiative aims to make authenticated and updated foreign family laws more accessible to courts, lawyers, and litigants, reducing the time, costs, and difficulties involved in proving foreign laws in Philippine legal proceedings.
Under the agreement, the OCA will maintain the centralized repository and develop a system for organizing and providing access to foreign legal documents. The DFA will coordinate with Philippine embassies and consulates to obtain authenticated copies of foreign laws and provide updates on changes in legislation. The SC Committee on Family Courts and Juvenile Concerns will oversee coordination and implementation.
SC Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier said the initiative responds to concerns raised by Filipinos abroad who face difficulties having foreign divorce decrees recognized in the Philippines.
Associate Justice Jhosep Y. Lopez added that the repository is expected to ease the burden on litigants who must obtain updated and authenticated foreign laws, helping reduce legal expenses and delays.
The initiative follows the Supreme Court’s approval of amendments to the Rules of Court under A.M. No. 25-03-14-SC, intended to make it easier for Filipino spouses to establish the existence and terms of a foreign divorce when seeking its recognition in Philippine courts.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro said the agreement seeks to simplify legal procedures and provide greater certainty for Filipinos navigating cross-border family disputes.
The Supreme Court said the partnership reflects the Judiciary’s continuing effort to improve access to justice through stronger coordination among government agencies and more efficient legal processes.
Source: Supreme Court of the Philippines, Office of the Spokesperson, press release on the October 21, 2026 signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. Photos courtesy of the SC Communications Office.
