Abused Filipinas pin hopes on legalized divorces

MANILA - Although her husband nearly killed her, Krista Dador cannot get a divorce as the Philippines is one of only two states - along with the Vatican - without a divorce law.

The prohibitive cost of an annulment means that Dador, who has received no financial support from her husband since they separated eight years ago, is looking to work as a maid in the Middle East, leaving their two children behind with her mother.

"This is a risk I'm taking," said the 28-year-old, who makes a living washing neighbors' laundry in Quezon City. "I want my children to be in school because I was not - and because I want to earn money to pay for my annulment."