Hi,
Firstly apologies for what I'm sure will be a relatively long post. I'm in something of a quandry and having come across this forum, had thought it a potentially good place to seek a spot of advice/information.
I'm a British man, I'm married with a Filipina for more than 3 years now. We married in the Philippines and have a son who is approaching 4 years old. We have just applied for my wifes 'indefinite leave to remain' in the UK, however I have been aware in the last perhaps year of the following:
My wife it would seem married me primarily in to get a Visa to the UK, our marriage became very different once she arrived here (apologies to the entire UK for bringing such a person here). She has indicated that once she has her leave to remain she will leave me, and will apply for council housing here. She has for about a year had a man 'on the side' which I mention just in passing as isnt a direct matter to the subject at hand.
I've helped my wife apply for her indefinite leave to remain despite the above, on the basis that should I not do so she will take our son with her (he is a UK born citizen though I should add). She has however, made little effort in the upbringing of our son, which has been left to me except when I am at work where my Sister will largely take care of him so I am very reserved about letting my wife have permanent custody of my son as I am sure there will be neglect issues-however I know that as far as the UK goes, the mother will be granted access unless I can prove her unsuitability-which I cannot.
The main concern for me at this moment, is that my wife plans to take our son to the Philippines in the very near future. I have very good reason to believe that she will intend to leave him with her mother and come back alone, and that will be the last me or my family may see of him.
I have however perhaps incorrect assumptions: that in the Philippines, the husband in a marriage has the primary right of custody of children and that I would be able to have the authorities there remove my son should my fears become reality. I am also on the assumption that as he is a British Citizen, and my wife is not that the British Embassy may intervene on my behalf.
I do not wish to deprive my wife of access to our son, but I am certain she has no such quandries as has proven herself to be both a terrible wife and mother, yet I'm in a situation presently where I have to consider all eventualities and react to her intentions as they become apparent.
Does anyone have any knowledge of the legalities concerning the above? It will certainly be gratefully received.
