Manila, July 7 -- Even as marriage remains an important institution for many Filipinos, fewer couples are seen tying the knot, choosing not to formalize their unions.

The Commission on Population and Development (CPD), in a news release on Tuesday, noted that the number of registered marriages in the country has steadily declined over the past decade.

CPD Undersecretary Lisa Grace Bersales said the decline in formal marriage reflects economic realities and shifting social aspirations.

"The data clearly show that the Filipino family is evolving. This reflects changing economic realities, shifting aspirations, and emerging pathways to family formation," she said, underscoring the need for policies that respond to the changing needs of F...