Philippines Rights Guide
How to Claim Child Support in the Philippines
Both parents are legally required to support their children in the Philippines under the Family Code. File a petition for support in the Family Court — free with PAO.
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Direct Answer
Under the Family Code of the Philippines, both parents are obligated to provide support — covering food, clothing, education, healthcare, and shelter — proportionate to their resources and the child's needs. You can file a petition for support at the Family Court (Regional Trial Court). The Public Attorney's Office provides free representation for qualifying individuals.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
Family Code of the Philippines (EO 209)
Article 194
“Support comprises everything indispensable for sustenance, dwelling, clothing, medical attendance, education and transportation, in keeping with the financial capacity of the family.”
Family Code of the Philippines (EO 209)
Article 196
“Brothers and sisters, legitimate and illegitimate, are obliged to support each other to the full extent of the obligation established by this article when the latter are in need.”
RA 9262 — Anti-VAWC Act 2004
Section 5(e)
“Depriving or threatening to deprive a woman or her children of financial support to which they are legally entitled constitutes economic violence.”
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim child support for an illegitimate child?
Yes. Both legitimate and illegitimate children are entitled to support from their parents. However, the amount of support for illegitimate children may be proportionately lower than for legitimate children under some interpretations. The father must be established by proof (birth certificate or paternity admission).
The father denies being the parent — what can I do?
File the petition for support and also file a petition to establish paternity. The court can order a DNA test to establish parentage. Once paternity is established, support obligation follows automatically.
How much support can the court order?
There is no fixed schedule in the Philippines — support is determined by the needs of the child and the means of the parents. The court considers income, assets, lifestyle, and the child's documented expenses. Either party can apply to modify the amount if circumstances change.
Can non-payment of child support result in arrest?
Non-payment of court-ordered support is indirect contempt of court, which can result in fines or imprisonment. If the person withholding support is your current or ex-partner (covered by RA 9262), economic abuse charges with arrest and criminal penalties apply.
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