a. Concepts

N. Paternity and Filiation

Concepts of Paternity, Filiation and Legitimacy – Family Code, art. 163

Art. 163. The filiation of children may be by nature or by adoption. Natural filiation may be legitimate or illegitimate. (n)

Paternity is the civil status of a father with regard to the child.

Filiation is the civil status of a child with regard to his parents.

Filiation may be by nature or by adoption. Natural filiation may be legitimate or illegitimate.

NOTE: Paternity or filiation is established by clear and convincing evidence. (Constantino v. Mendez, G.R. No. 57227, May 14, 1992)