Philippines
In a landmark decision on February 5, 2026, the Philippine Supreme Court ruled that cohabiting same-sex partners may claim co-ownership of property acquired during their relationship if they can prove actual financial contribution. This extends legal provisions previously reserved for heterosexual couples to same-sex relationships.
The court applied Article 148 of the Family Code, which governs property relations of couples who live together but cannot legally marry, to a same-sex relationship for the first time. This decision allows same-sex partners to assert property rights similar to those of opposite-sex couples in similar circumstances.
Advocates hail this ruling as a significant advancement for LGBTQ rights in the Philippines, a predominantly Catholic nation where same-sex marriages are not recognized. While the decision does not legalize same-sex marriage, it sets a precedent for the recognition of rights within same-sex partnerships.
Legal experts suggest that this ruling could add momentum to the ongoing debate over same-sex marriage and related rights in the Philippines. However, they caution that without legislative action, the ruling's impact may be limited to property rights and may not extend to other areas such as adoption or spousal benefits.
This decision marks a step forward in the recognition of same-sex relationships in the Philippines, highlighting the evolving legal landscape concerning LGBTQ rights in the country.
