Securing the future of a child is a fundamental priority for any guardian. In the Philippines, child support is strictly governed by the Family Code , ensuring that mothers and fathers are held accountable for their offspring’s basic needs . Regardless of whether you are a solo parent, understanding how child support Philippines works is essential for upholding the rights of the child.
What is Covered Under Child Support?
Under Article 194 of the Family Code, support is not limited to just cash . It includes everything indispensable for:
Sustenance : Daily meals and groceries .
Dwelling : A safe place to live .
Clothing : Appropriate wear for the child.
Healthcare: Hospitalization, prescriptions, and health checkups.
Schooling: School supplies, uniforms, and including vocational training beyond the age of 18 in certain cases.
Travel: Expenses for going to and from school .
Calculating Support Payments
One of the most common questions is how much child support is required . Unlike other jurisdictions, the Philippines does not use a standard formula . Instead , judges balance two critical factors:
The Recipient's Necessities: The actual costs needed for the child’s upbringing .
The Capacity of child support philippines the Giver : The resources, properties, and salary of the obligated parent.
Support is elastic , meaning it may be adjusted over time if the costs of living rise or the parent’s income changes .
Support for Illegitimate Children
It is a frequent myth that just legitimate parents must provide support. However, Philippine law mandates that both legitimate and illegitimate children are entitled to support. For children born out of wedlock, the primary requirement is establishing paternity. This can be done using the PSA records signed by the father , DNA testing , or public acknowledgment .
Legal Remedies for Non-Payment
If a parent deliberately fails to give support , the guardian has several options:
Demand Letter : A formal request for support is often the first step.
Civil Action for Support : Going to court in the Family Court to secure a legally binding support order .
Economic Abuse: Pursuant to the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act , the deliberate withholding of financial support can be treated as economic abuse , which may leading to penalties or imprisonment .
Final Thoughts
Navigating child support Philippines demands diligence and a clear understanding of your legal rights . Keep in mind that support is in the best interest of the child , ensuring they have the opportunity to thrive . For those facing challenges with non-payment, it is always wise to consult legal counsel to protect the child's rights.