The Emergence of Anti-Child Marriage Law in the Philippines

 by Bryan John Enoceña 

            On July 26, 2021, a recent law was established to eradicate the idea of practicing all traditional and cultural attempts related to “forced marriage” that involves maltreatment, prejudice, and taking advantage of children under 18 years of age. Officially signed by the president of the senate, speaker of house representatives, secretaries, and the ex-president of the Philippines Rodrigo Roa Duterte, the Republic act 11596 was approved on the 10th day of December of the same year. Believing that the youth are a fundamental part of nation-building, children who are under 18 years of age and were subjected to child engagement and child marriage without the free consent of both parties have no effect or void in the eyes of the law. If proven, any person who facilitates a child marriage will be subjected to a penalty with a fine amount depending on the consequences violated in the said law. 

            On the 24th of July 2022, a very recent documentary about the runaway brides was filmed by GMA Public Affairs focusing on the lives of Manobo tribes people who, by their own choice, decided not to follow and escape the Buya arranged by the opposite party or clan. The documented life story of the runaway brides serves as an eye-opener to people and for future generations of their tribe to pursue what’s best for them and not to be chained by their traditions and/or cultural practices.

        Effectively utilizing Republic Act 11596 will advocate and safeguard the physical, ethical, religious, academic, and social well-being of the Philippine youth in the long run. However, this will also mean that the practice of Buya of the Manobo tribe will soon be abolished and those who will continue the Buya will face the judgment of the law.