SC nullifies marriage due to husband's psychological incapacity

The Supreme Court (SC) ruled that a decades-long unjustified absence from home can be considered evidence of psychological incapacity.

In an 18-page decision penned by Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, the SC Second Division nullified the marriage between a couple due to psychological incapacity, reversing and setting aside previous rulings.

The high court noted that the husband's infidelity, failure to provide support for his family, and unjustified absence indicate he was not aware of his duties as a husband and father.

According to the SC, the couple married in June 1984 and separated ten years later due to the husband's changed behavior. The man then married two other women after their separation.

The ruling cites Articles 68 and 220 of the Family Code, emphasizing the obligations of spouses and parents, and found that the husband's actions showed his inability to fulfill these responsibilities.

A clinical psychologist determined that the husband suffers from narcissistic personality disorder with underlying borderline traits, which developed during childhood and predated their marriage.

The SC decision underscores the importance of mutual love, respect, fidelity, and support as mandated by Article 68 of the Family Code.