A marriage void ab initio is treated as non-existent from the very beginning . Under the law, it is as if the union never happened . Because it is inherently flawed, it can never be cured by time.
Why a Marriage is Considered Void
Lack of Age: Unions where one party is below 18, even with parental consent .
Lack of Authority : Marriages performed by someone without the legal power to solemnize marriages.
No Marriage License: Marrying without a legal marriage license (unless legally exempted).
Psychological Incapacity : When a party is mentally unable to comply with essential marital obligations .
Incestuous Marriages : Marriages between direct relatives (e.g., siblings or descendants).
The Nature of Voidable Marriages
In contrast, a voidable marriage is initially considered valid and subsisting until it is annulled by a competent court . Unlike void marriages , a voidable marriage can be ratified if the offended party continues to live with the other after the void vs voidable marriage philippines defect is discovered .
Common Voidable Grounds
Underage Consent Issues: If a party is between 18 and 21 and wed without guardian permission.
Unsound Mind: If one spouse was of unsound mind at the celebration.
Deception: Consent gained through lies (e.g., concealing a pregnancy by another).
Vitiated Consent: If the union was coerced through threats.
Impotence: If either party is physically unable to consummate the marriage.
Comparison Table
The main differences lie in the legal status and the prescriptive period for filing.
| Feature | Void Marriage | Voidable Marriage | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Legal Nature | Invalid from start | Initially valid | | Healing | Cannot be cured | Can be validated | | Prescription | Never expires | Usually 5 years | | Children's Status | Legally illegitimate* | Validly born |
Note: Under the Family Code, children of marriages declared void due to Psychological Incapacity (Article 36) are considered legitimate.
Taking Action
To formally end these unions , you must file a petition in court . For a void marriage, you seek a Judicial Declaration of Nullity. For a voidable marriage, you petition for an Annulment of Marriage.
Speaking with a specialized family lawyer in the Philippines is highly recommended to ensure your petition is processed correctly.