Question

Mr. Juan dela Cruz and Ms. Maria Santos were married and had two children. After five years of marriage, the couple separated due to irreconcilable differences. Ms. Santos, who was granted custody of their children, filed for support from Mr. dela Cruz. Despite her repeated demands, Mr. dela Cruz failed to provide financial assistance for the children's support.

Mr. dela Cruz claims that he is not obligated to provide support for the children because Ms. Santos is already receiving financial assistance from her parents. He argues that since the primary duty to provide support falls on the parents, Ms. Santos should rely on her own resources and the help of her family.

Based on the given scenario and the provisions of the Family Code, discuss the following:

1. Is Mr. dela Cruz obligated to provide support for his children? Explain your answer.
2. Does the financial assistance received by Ms. Santos from her parents affect Mr. dela Cruz's obligation to provide support for the children? Why or why not?