In the Philippines, child support is a legal obligation of parents to provide for their child`s basic needs, including food, shelter, education, and healthcare. It is considered a fundamental right of the child to be supported by both parents, regardless of their marital status.

The law governing child support in the Philippines is the Family Code of the Philippines, which dictates that parents have a joint obligation to support their child, in proportion to their respective resources. This means that the amount of child support to be paid by each parent should be based on their income, financial capacity, and other relevant circumstances.

In cases where there is no agreement between the parents on the amount of child support to be paid, the court may step in and determine the appropriate amount based on the needs of the child and the financial capacity of each parent. The court may also order the payment of retroactive child support, which covers the period from the filing of the petition for support up to the time the court issues its decision.

To ensure that the child`s needs are prioritized, courts may also order the sequestration or attachment of the property or income of the parent who fails to provide for the child`s support, or may even impose imprisonment for non-payment of child support.

It is important for both parents to come to an agreement on child support, as this not only benefits the child but also helps avoid any legal complications and strife between them. Parents should consider seeking the help of a lawyer or a mediator to help them arrive at a fair and reasonable agreement.

In conclusion, child support is a crucial aspect of parenting that should not be neglected or taken for granted. Parents should take their legal obligation seriously and prioritize the well-being of their child, whether they are together or not. By reaching a mutually agreeable arrangement, parents can ensure that their child`s needs are met and prevent further conflict or legal issues.