Dear PAO,

My son was born as a result of my affair with Joshua. His birth was registered, but the local civil registrar refused to indicate the name of the father because my child was not recognized. I have been asking Joshua to recognize my son, but he refused and ignored the document denominated as "Authority to Use the Surname of the Father" I sent him, which was required by the civil registrar. I have read in a newspaper that filiation may be proved by DNA testing. I intend to file a petition for the recognition of my child and ask the court for DNA testing, but I was dismayed when someone informed me that I need to present proof of filiation first before the court may order such a test to prove paternity. Is this true? If so, may I know the reason why proof of filiation is required before the court will order the test?

Register to read this story and more for free.

Signing up for an account helps us improve your browsing experience.

Continue

OR

See our subscription options.

Already have an account? Log in here