13-2-2025 (MANILA) A survey conducted by the Commission on Population Development has unveiled a significant shift in Filipino relationship dynamics, with more women opting for cohabitation over traditional marriage arrangements.
The 2022 National Demographic and Health Survey indicates that 19% of Filipino women aged 15-49 are choosing to live with their partners without formal marriage, marking a dramatic increase from just 5% in 1993. Conversely, the proportion of married women in the same age group has declined substantially, dropping from 54% to 36% over the same period.
Leading anthropologist Dr Nestor Castro attributes this transformation to evolving social norms and economic patterns. “The traditional model of household dynamics has undergone a fundamental change. Where once we saw predominantly single-income households with women as homemakers, we now have both partners pursuing careers and maintaining independent professional lives,” Castro explains.
This cultural shift is exemplified by Faye Ruiz and Jefferson Sanchez, who have maintained a decade-long cohabiting relationship. “Living together allows you to truly understand your partner’s character before making a lifelong commitment,” Ruiz reflects. “Marriage can create complications if the relationship deteriorates, particularly due to legal entanglements.”
Despite embracing cohabitation, the couple maintains their arrangement mirrors the commitment of marriage, albeit without religious sanctification. “We’re as dedicated to each other as any married couple,” Ruiz emphasises, though both express intentions to eventually formalise their union through marriage.
The Catholic Church, however, maintains its traditional stance. Father Raul Caga of Sacred Heart Parish Shrine expresses concern about the trend: “Cohabitation often prioritises physical intimacy over developing deeper emotional connections through meaningful dialogue and communication.” He advocates for proper marriage preparation, emphasising spiritual guidance as fundamental to lasting relationships.
