Maxene Magalona rebuffs ‘stay for the kids’ argument vs divorce
Maxene Magalona made a pitch once more for divorce, this time thumbing down the argument of those opposing the legislative measure: for parents to “stay for the kids.”
In a new Instagram post, Magalona reiterated her stance for the legalization of divorce in the Philippines in response to those who say that parents should keep the family together for the sake of their children, despite the relationship becoming “too dysfunctional.”
“I understand that the children are going to be affected if and when their parents decide to end their marriage. However, they will ALSO be affected when a dysfunctional couple force themselves to stay together just for the sake of the kids,” she said.
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The actress pointed out that an estranged couple who have lost all love and respect for each other “will constantly project negative energy onto each other,” which can be passed to their children, thus creating a vicious cycle for the family.
Children raised in “dysfunctional homes” will grow up with mental health issues and will believe that it’s okay to “fight and shout” when they run into problems with their future partners, Magalona further said.
“While it is okay to have arguments with your spouse every once in a while, it is very unhealthy and irresponsible to fight, scream at, and physically abuse each other in front of your kids on a regular basis. The kids will be confused as to what ‘love’ really is,” she said.
On the other hand, Magalona said legalizing divorce “brings peace” to families as it teaches them to love each other “from afar” and heal.
“So please, don’t be afraid that if and when divorce becomes legalized in the Philippines that children will have “‘broken families,’” she said.
“STOP fighting especially when you’re already broken up. Do not badmouth your spouses to your children and instead, pray for them. Pray for the healing of your whole family… It’s time for the Philippines to heal. Please legalize divorce so that the broken and wounded families can have the chance to be free from pain,” she added.
Magalona herself is separated from her husband, model Rob Mananquil. She announced her separation in late 2022 after four years of marriage.
Her post earned the support of Senator Cayetano in the comments, saying her claim is “well said.” Incidentally, Cayetano is one of the senator pushing for the passage of the divorce law.
Magalona’s post comes days after she expressed her support for the divorce bill on social media. Actress and “It’s Showtime” host Anne Curtis is also supporting the measure.
The House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading the bill on divorce, but the legislation will still have to muster enough votes in the Senate for it to become a law, provided that it will not be vetoed by the President.
Senators in favor of the bill include Cayetano, Risa Hontiveros, Robin Padilla, Grace Poe, Imee Marcos, and Raffy Tulfo, according to an informal survey by Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada.
At present, only the Philippines and the city-state of Vatican are the only governments where divorce has not been legalized.
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