Claudine Barretto Speaks on Absolute Divorce Bill
CLAUDINE BARRETTO – The Optimum Star supports the legalization of divorce in the Philippines.
The Absolute Divorce Bill (House Bill 9349) is close to becoming law in the Philippines, having passed its third and final reading in the House of Representatives on May 22. The bill saw 126 lawmakers voting in favor, 109 against, and 20 abstaining. This legislative milestone has ignited widespread debate, drawing opinions from various public figures, including notable celebrities.
One prominent supporter is veteran actress Claudine Barretto, who recently expressed her support for legalizing divorce. Through a series of Instagram posts, Claudine shared art cards that define divorce with messages such as, “Divorce: Having the courage to choose how you’re going to spend the rest of your life” and “Divorce. The end of an error.” In her caption, she highlighted the stark contrast between divorce and annulment, noting that annulment is a prolonged, painful, and costly process.
Claudine’s advocacy for divorce appears deeply personal. She is currently entangled in an annulment process to dissolve her marriage to actor Raymart Santiago, which has been pending in court for over a decade. Claudine described annulment as “a very long, painful & very Expensive [heartbroken emoji],” and emphasized that divorce offers individuals a second chance to correct their mistakes. “JUST MY OPINION,” she clarified.
At a press conference last month, Claudine revealed that she has chosen not to enter into a new relationship until her marriage to Raymart is annulled. “Sarado ang puso ko ngayon hanggang ma-annulled,” she stated, indicating that she has closed her heart to new romantic prospects until the legal dissolution of her marriage is complete.
Claudine and Raymart were married in 2006 and separated in 2015. They share a biological son, Santino, and Claudine has adopted children named Sabina, Quiah, and Noah.
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