Cultural, Sociological, and Theological Meaning of the Dignity and Indissolubility of Marriage in the Philippines

Author's Information:

Joselito G. Gutierrez, Ph.D.*

Faculty, University of Santo Tomas, Research Associate, ResearchCenter for Theology,Religious Studies, and Ethics

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-1700-9964

Sarah Gail A. Ortiz, Ed.D.

Faculty, University of Santo Tomas

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-3864-7714

Jefrey B. Cercado, Ph.D.

Faculty, University of Santo Tomas

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3060-4297

Patrick Meryll J. Garcia, M.A.

Faculty, University of Santo Tomas

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7720-1577

Vol 03 No 05 (2026):Volume 03 Issue 05 May 2026

Page No.: 440-448

Abstract:

Marriage is an important cultural, social, and religious event in the Philippines. It is a community festivity that binds the couple and the two families, merging them into one. For Filipinos, marriage is a covenant and is considered a lifetime commitment that no one can bring to an end until death. This research study aims to underscore the dignity and indissolubility of marriage in the Philippines. It primarily focuses on the Christian faith of the Filipino people and the sociological and cultural meaning of the indissolubility of marriage. This research paper employs a qualitative approach and documentary research method in an academic study. The paper articulates the significance of marriage for the Filipino family and why divorce is frowned upon. The paper concludes that marriage cannot be dissolved not only because it is explicitly expressed in the wedding vow that “the two will become one” for better or for worse, ‘til death… but also because, in their culture and society, Filipinos believe that one’s success in marriage is a mark of life’s success. One’s downfall in marriage is considered a failure.

KeyWords:

Dignity of marriage, Divorce, indissolubility of marriage, Filipino family

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