Carla Abellana favors legalizing divorce in the Philippines

Carla Abellana | Image: Instagram/@carlaangeline

Following her divorce from actor Tom Rodriguez, Carla Abellana has joined the roster of Filipino celebrities who are advocating for the legalization of divorce in the country, citing the benefits that comes with it, especially for those who are in abusive relationships.

In an interview with 24 Oras, the Kapuso actress was asked about her stand on the controversial measure pending in Congress amid her own experience following the dissolution of her marriage, and subsequent divorce proceedings in the United States.

“Catholic ako pero very realistic naman din ako (but I’m realistic). I see the bigger picture. Of course sa panahon ngayon, iba na (at this time, things are different). Sa nakikita ko ang daming magbebenefit (from what I see, there are many benefits),” she said.

“Aminin natin, marriage isn’t easy (let’s face it, marriage isn’t easy). It can get toxic. Marami (many), unfortunately, ang relationship nagiging abusive na ‘yung relationship nila (their relationships become abusive). Sana mapirmahan na ‘yan (I hope it will be signed soon). Mafinalize na. (Make it final),” continued the actress.

READ: Anne Curtis, Maxene Magalona say yes to divorce law

Abellana affirmed that there are married couples who stay together only because they have “no option,” despite the marriage already being unhealthy. 

“There are marriages na nagsastay nga sila (staying onlu because) for the sake of the children. They stayed married dahil wala silang option (because they had no option). Pero hindi na healthy (but it’s no longer healthy) for the family, not just for the marriage. So ang dami (so many). Dapat pakinggan talaga nila ‘yung citizens, mga Filipino (They should really listen to the citizens, to the Filipinos),” stressed the Kapuso star.

Despite her struggles in love, Abellana remains optimistic about the idea of dating; however, at the time, she affirmed that her priority is her work, especially since she’s about to star in an upcoming series, “Widows’ War,” opposite Bea Alonzo.

Abellana and Rodriguez dated for seven years but separated after three months of marriage. Their divorce was finalized in the United States in June 2022.