Mary Christine Jolly drops concubinage charge vs. Derek Ramsay, Angelica Panganiban

After a legal battle that went on for months, Derek Ramsay and estranged wife Mary Christine Jolly have settled their issues.

The latter withdrew the concubinage charge she filed against Derek and his ex-girlfriend Angelica Panganiban.

For son’s sake

Mary Christine’s legal counsel Argee Guevarra said in a statement that she and Derek agreed to a settlement for the sake of their 11-year-old son Austin.

Mary Christine has earlier withdrawn her complaint for violation of the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act against Derek.

“Derek and Mary can now move on with their lives but with a renewed realization and deepened sense of commitment to fulfill their parental responsibilities and obligations to their son, Austin. Although the legal battle exacted untold stress between the couple, Derek and Mary emerged as victors with their coming to an amicable settlement which is always a Win-Win solution for all litigants,” Guevarra’s statement said.

Good settlement

It will be recalled that Mary Christine filed concubinage charges against Derek and Angelica for allegedly living in even if the actor is already married.

Guevarra added that the couple can now focus on raising their son.

“Handling a good case is always bettered by a good settlement between the parties -- in stark contrast with the acrimonious animus between Derek and Mary which animated the conduct of the legal proceedings a few months ago. The peaceful resolution of the case between Derek and Mary should now serve as a template for others similarly situated and for those who have closely followed the drama to view Family Law from the prism of fair play and respect between husband and wife bearing in mind the best interest of the child.”

Angelica is having a US vacation with boyfriend John Lloyd Cruz, while Derek  is shooting the Metro Manila Filmfest entry “English Only Please.”