The Supreme Court of the Philippines has ruled that same-sex partners may legally co-own property, marking a significant step for LGBTQ rights in the predominantly Christian country, where same-sex marriage remains illegal.

For the first time, the court clarified that same-sex couples fall under Article 148 of the Family Code, which governs property relations for couples who are not legally allowed to marry. Laws, the court said, must be interpreted through a contemporary lens that reflects social realities. Otherwise, certain legitimate intimate relationships risk becoming legally invisible.

The ruling stems from a dispute over a house in Quezon City purchased by Jennifer Josef and Evalyn Ursua. After their relationship ended, Ursua refused to sell the property or recognize Josef as a co-owner, despite earlier agreements. Lower courts ruled against Josef, but the Supreme Court overturned those decisions.

The justices emphasized that, as long as marriage remains restricted to opposite-sex couples, it is up to lawmakers to address the rights of same-sex partners more broadly.