MORE THAN 6 in 10 Davaoeños support the Absolute Divorce Bill, the University of Mindanao- Institute of Popular Opinion (UM-IPO) survey revealed.
UM-IPO surveyed 1200 Davaoeños across the city’s three districts to weigh their sentiments on the bill that recently passed the third reading in Congress.
According to the survey, despite the support for the bill being divided, 65.7% who understood the key provisions of the bill recognized its need, showing a substantial level of informed support.
About 30.7% remained neutral, suggesting they had not formed their opinions yet; 25.5% supported and another 25.5% strongly supported the bill, indicating a considerable base of backing.
Meanwhile, 11.7% were opposed, and 6.6% were strongly opposed, drawing concerns from cultural and religious beliefs.
Regarding familiarity with the Absolute Divorce Bill, respondents showed a high level of awareness as 46.0% of respondents were somewhat familiar, and 28.5% were very familiar, driven by media coverage and public discourse.
Another 29.9% of the respondents learned about the bill through social media (29.9%), while 13.1% learned about it on television.
When asked about their readiness to support the bill if it benefited someone they knew, 33.6% were neutral, while 27.7% expressed support and 21.2% were strongly supportive, showing a significant portion of the population’s willingness to endorse the bill based on its practical benefits to individuals in distress.
A majority or about 58.4% knew someone who might benefit from the bill, with issues such as irreconcilable differences and domestic violence.
On the Davaoeños perceived effects of the bill, 28.5% believed it would have a negative effect, while 31.4% were neutral, and 19.0% felt it would positively impact family stability.
The result showed some fear of disintegration and concern about the sanctity of marriage, while it also shows others see it as a means to resolve untenable situations (irreconcilable differences and domestic abuse), recognizing the need for legal recourse the study said.
Meanwhile, on the children’s welfare concerns, 26.3% anticipate negative effects and 21.2% see positive effects. However, the remaining 27.7% expressed neutrality, suggesting they are uncertain of the long-term impacts on children.
“This division underscores the importance of ensuring that any divorce legislation includes robust provisions to protect children’s interests and well-being,” the study stated.
The neutrality, however, suggests a need for more public education on how the law will address and mitigate potential negative impacts on children.
Mental health outcomes from divorce were viewed positively by 25.5%, though 20.4% foresaw negative impacts. This acknowledges that while divorce can be emotionally challenging, it provides relief from the toxicity of relationships.
The positive outlook on mental health reflects a growing awareness of Davaoeños of the psychological toll of staying in dysfunctional marriages.
On the economic impact, 40.9% were neutral, while 19.7% saw its positive effect including allowing individuals to regain financial independence.
“Some may see divorce as a path to financial independence, while others fear the economic difficulties it might entail, particularly in a context where women might still face economic disadvantages,” the study stated.
Meanwhile, the study showed religious and moral values were a significant concern, with 24.8%
predicting negative effects and 34.3% remaining neutral, which could mean religious beliefs strongly influence opinions.
Experts analyzed that concerns about the bill undermining religious and moral values are rooted deeply in the belief that marriage is a sacred institution.
Considering the divided opinions on the Bill, experts suggest there is a need for comprehensive public education campaigns to inform citizens about the provisions and intended protections of the Bill.
“Policymakers should consider the diverse perspectives and concerns reflected in the survey to
ensure that the final legislation is both effective and sensitive to the needs and values of the community,” the study stated.
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