In countries all over the world, married women endure domestic abuse. In most countries, though, they have an out-clause. While divorce is never pleasant, at least it's an option. I was shocked to read that divorce isn't allowed in the Philippines — or Malta — and that these are the only two countries in the world that don't permit divorce.

Both are Catholic strongholds that attempt to support and keep families whole. But how can family life be called viable in light of documented rampant domestic violence and physical abuse by husbands against Filipino women? This cruel spousal treatment violates basic human rights and often keeps women in bondage. Due to embarassment, as well as a societal attitude that domestic violence is unimportant, abuse is chiefly unreported

If women cannot legally escape from the abuse by securing a divorce, they are trapped in hostile marriages, believing nothing can be done about their situation.

I'm highly concerned about the children who witness physical acts of violence against their mothers. This may damage them psychologically for life and the children may perpetuate these acts in their own relationships with girlfriends and wives.

An added dilemma is the communities in which indigenous priests and tribal leaders perform marriages. Attempts to enact divorce legislation have the burden to satisfy diverse communities as well as the Catholic Church.

It appears that most Filipinos side with the Church, claiming you have to stay married for the sake of the family and "you will be rewarded in heaven." I find this reasoning to be offensive and a danger to women who experience acts of violence by a spouse.

Divorce was allowed in the Phillipines under Spanish, U.S. and Japanese rule, but since 1950, divorce has been banned. The abuse will continue until enlightened citizens expose the gross discrimination against women who face physical and psychological trauma in marriage. What do you think?

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