The issue of parents separating and engaging in custody battles over their children is a common occurrence in the Philippines.
Recently, the public service program CIA with BA (Cayetanos in Action with Boy Abunda) featured a case involving a father named Gerry, who was being denied his right to see his children currently in the custody of the mother, Luz.
Senator siblings Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano, along with TV host Boy Abunda, addressed the complaint during the episode aired on Sunday, May 28.
During the show, Senator Alan reminded Gerry, Luz, and the viewers about the general rule governing such cases.
“When parents separate but share custody of their child, it is not allowed to deprive the child of the opportunity to see, know, and be with either the mother or father, whoever has custody of the child. The most important aspect in the law is the welfare and best interest of the child,” he said.
However, the senator clarified that there is an exception to this rule.
“If one of the parents poses a danger to the child or if there is a restraining order due to reasons allowed by law given by the barangay or the court,” he explained.
“So if it is said that the child is in danger or being abused, it’s a danger to the child, so it can be prohibited,” he added.
The show highlighted the clarity of roles for both the complainant and the accused. “Whoever has custody sets the rules, but it has to be reasonable — this is where complications arise. It’s as simple as having a disagreement, not wanting to see each other, but you (Gerry) don’t want to see the other parent but want to see your children, very clear… you have the right to see your children.”
By the end of the “Case 2 Face” segment, it was shown that the custody dispute had been resolved.
CIA with BA continues the legacy of Senator Rene Cayetano, the late father of Senator Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano.
The senior Cayetano was a renowned lawyer who gained fame through his radio and TV program Compañero y Compañera, which aired from 1997 to 2001.
CIA with BA airs every Sunday at 11:30 p.m. on GMA.
