CEBU CITY — Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma has called on the faithful of the Archdiocese of Cebu to unite against any move to legalize divorce in the Philippines.

In his letter titled "No to Divorce" last June 30, the archbishop cited the need to preserve the sanctity and permanence of marriage and warned of the societal harms that divorce could bring.

He acknowledged that some marriages are irreparably broken but points out that current legal measures, such as legal separation and the declaration of nullity, address these issues.

He warned that divorce would redefine marriage by eliminating its permanent character and asserts that its broader implications would harm families and society.

Palma also cited that "studies show that children suffer most in a divorce."

He stressed the detrimental effects on children and the sanctity of marriage and warned that divorce often leads to the breakdown of families and the erosion of societal values.

Palma urges the faithful to inform themselves about the harms of divorce and to participate in programs that promote healthy marital relationships.

The archbishop highlighted the efforts of the Commission on Family and Life, which promotes these programs and calls for increased awareness and participation.

He also appealed to priests to focus on preparing couples for the lifelong union of marriage rather than just officiating the wedding ceremony.

Advocacy groups, primarily led by women's rights organizations, endorse the legalization of divorce.

The Gabriela Partylist, a women's group, supports a House panel's bill that will legalize absolute divorce in the country.

Rep. Arlene Brosas said the approval of the substitute bill offers renewed hope for women and victims of domestic abuse, who await the chance to break free from toxic and violent relationships.

Meanwhile, Cebu 3rd District Representative Pablo John Garcia, in a news media forum last month, said that divorce would not harm children of affected couples.

He argued that divorce could provide relief from potentially toxic family environments, highlighting the negative impact that staying in dysfunctional marriages could have on children's emotional and psychological well-being.