The ASEAN SOGIE Caucus (ASC) warmly welcomes the landmark ruling of the Philippine Supreme Court Decision — G.R. No. 267469, recognising that same-sex couples who live together may be acknowledged as co-owners of property under Article 148 of the Family Code, through judicial interpretation, where there is proof of actual contribution. This ruling is a progressive and important step in protecting the right to housing and property for all persons, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
ASC views this decision as a potential milestone not only for the Philippines but for the wider Southeast Asian region, where same-sex couples continue to face legal invisibility and insecurity in matters of housing, inheritance, and property ownership. By affirming that same-sex partners are entitled to protection under existing legal frameworks, the Court has taken a meaningful step toward reducing structural discrimination faced by queer communities. The ruling helps ensure that no one is denied their rightful share of a home they helped build simply because their relationship is not legally recognised.
ASC also acknowledges and honours both parties to the case, especially Jennifer C. Josef, whose courage and perseverance in defense of human rights made this ruling possible. The filing of the legal petition was pursued amidst legal uncertainty, social stigma, and personal challenges. The corresponding result of the case did bear fruit: it secured justice and opened pathways for greater legal protection and dignity for many LGBTQIA+ couples in the Philippines.
We further welcome the concurring opinions of Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen and Associate Justice Amy C. Lazaro-Javier. While concurring opinions agree with the Court’s final ruling, they offer additional reasoning that strengthens its impact. These opinions reinforce the human rights foundations of the decision and provide important guidance for future cases.
ASC hopes this ruling will help ensure that no individual is denied their rightful share in a home they helped build, whether due to separation or the death of a partner. ASC encourages courts, lawmakers, and policymakers across ASEAN to take note of this development and to continue advancing legal protections that ensure equal access to housing, property, and economic security for diverse families. ASC calls on judicial and administrative bodies to ensure that this ruling is applied consistently and accessible for the legal protection of marginalised queer communities.
Protecting property and housing rights is fundamental to human rights. This decision offers a meaningful step forward for equality and justice in Southeast Asia.
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