01/01/2026
The law protects the freedom to marry—and the freedom not to.
We are glad to know that Ms. Sherra de Juan (or known to the public as the "runaway bride") has been found safe. This post is shared solely for legal commentary and public information purposes, and we respectfully remind everyone that we should refrain from judgment, as we do not know what personal circumstances she may be going through.
In Wassmer vs. Velez (G.R. No. L-20089, December 26, 1964) a “runaway bride” does not incur criminal liability by merely backing out of a wedding. Marriage requires free and continuing consent up to the moment of solemnization, and there is no crime for non-appearance. Hence, a mere breach of a promise to marry is not actionable, as no one can be compelled to marry.
Civil liability may arise only if the refusal to marry is attended by bad faith or abuse of rights, such as deliberately allowing the other party to incur substantial expenses or suffer humiliation despite having no intention to proceed. In such cases, damages may be awarded under Articles 19, 20, and 21 of the Civil Code. Ultimately, liability depends on proof of bad faith and not on public outrage.
