This article has been repealed and is no longer law.

Repealed by EO 209 (1987) — the subject is now governed by the Family Code. The former text is shown below for reference only.

Civil Code · Book I: Persons · Title VIII: Paternity and Filiation

Article 285

Chapter 4: Illegitimate Children · Sec. 1: Recognition of Natural Children

Repealed
By EO 209 (1987)

Former text, as of October 24, 2026

The action for the recognition of natural children may be brought only during the lifetime of the presumed parents, except in the following cases:

(1) If the father or mother died during the minority of the child, in which case the latter may file the action before the expiration of four years from the attainment of his majority;

(2) If after the death of the father or of the mother a document should appear of which nothing had been heard and in which either or both parents recognize the child.

In this case, the action must be commenced within four years from the finding of the document. (137a)

Consolidated by Alleba from the text of Republic Act No. 386 (Lawphil and the Supreme Court E-Library). Book I provisions on marriage, family relations and parental authority were repealed by the Family Code (Executive Order No. 209, 1987) and are shown for reference only. For information and research only, and not legal advice. For certified copies, refer to the Official Gazette or the issuing agency.