SC: Only the Innocent Spouse Can Nullify a Bigamous Marriage

The Supreme Court has ruled that only the injured spouse—whether from the first or second marriage—has the legal standing to seek the nullity of a bigamous marriage. The spouse who knowingly entered into a bigamous marriage cannot later seek its nullification to escape legal consequences.

Case Background
Maria Lina P. Quirit-Figarido married Edwin L. Figarido while still legally married to Ho Kar Wai. Aware that her first marriage was still valid, she proceeded with a second marriage, committing bigamy. She later petitioned to have her second marriage declared null and void.

Lower Court’s Decision
The trial court dismissed her petition, ruling that she had no legal right to nullify the marriage she knowingly contracted. Allowing her to do so would mean benefiting from her own wrongdoing.

Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court upheld the dismissal, emphasizing that only the innocent spouse can challenge a bigamous marriage. The Court stated:

“Evidently, Maria Lina is guilty of contracting a bigamous marriage because she was wedded to Edwin while her marriage with Ho Kar Wai was still subsisting.”
This ruling reinforces the law against bigamy, ensuring that those who knowingly violate it cannot later seek legal relief for their own unlawful act.

Reference
Maria Lina P. Quirit-Figarido v. Edwin L. Figarido, G.R. No. 259520.