Duterte signs law prohibiting child marriageMANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte has signed into a law a measure banning child marriage, a policy seen to protect children from abusive practices and unwanted responsibilities. 11596 or An Act Prohibiting the Practice of Child Marriage and Imposing Penalties for Violations Thereof was signed into law last December 10, documents released by Malacañang showed. According to the law, the state affirms that marriage shall be entered into only with the free and full consent of capacitated parties, and child betrothal and marriage shall have no legal effect. Under the law, any person who causes, fixes, facilitates, or arranges a child marriage shall suffer the penalty of prision mayor in its medium period or imprisonment of eight years and one day to ten years and a fine of not less than P40,000. Any person who performs or officiates a child marriage shall be slapped with the penalty of prision mayor in its maximum period or imprisonment of ten years and one day to 12 years and a fine of not less than P50,000.

Source: Philippine Star January 06, 2022 09:55 UTC