The Supreme Court in a landmark case has ruled that same-sex couples who live together may be recognized as co-owners of property under Article 148 of the Family Code, provided there is proof of actual contribution.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court stressed that Congress and other government agencies must be involved in lawmaking and policymaking to expose and remedy the experiences of homosexual couples who have been oppressed, as the Court says it "does not have the monopoly to assure the freedom and rights of homosexual couples."
Several LGBT+ advocates and legal figures met the decision with tempered optimism, expressing hope in a renewed public and legislative push toward comprehensive policies such as the Marriage Equality Law.
"It is important to celebrate small wins, yes, but I hope it’s clear we will continue to fight for genuine equal rights and dignity. We thank the Supreme Court for moving towards the right direction," Vince Liban, Pride PH National Convener, said in his Facebook post.
"So, is this case really a win... In a way, yes. Because it acknowledges cohabiting same-sex couples. Jurisprudence acknowledging that same-sex couples fall under Section 148 of the Family Code — a law that governs Family, is a win. They are not 'roommates,' not 'business' partners. From legally invisible, to being visible. Cohabiting same-sex couples exist," Virginia Viray, a lawyer and senior lecturer in UP Law, said in a Facebook post.
"[But] there are also certain rights and protections, such as the right to SSS/GSIS survivors’ pension, that no legal acrobatics can remedy. There must be a change in law. Josef v. Ursua is a small step forward, but the journey to true visibility and equality has a long way to go," Viray added.
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