Question

In accordance with the provisions of the Family Code, specifically Articles 164-165 and 167-169, as well as Article 176 as amended by R.A. No. 9255, please answer the following questions:

1. Juan and Maria were in a non-marital relationship and have a child named Sarah. Despite being unmarried, Juan has acknowledged Sarah as his own child. Can Sarah be considered a legitimate child under the Family Code? Explain.

2. Sofia, an illegitimate child, wants to establish her filiation to her deceased father, Carlos. What are the specific rights that Sofia is entitled to as an illegitimate child under Article 176 of the Family Code?

3. Julio, an illegitimate child, was born in 1985. In 2004, the Family Code was amended by R.A. No. 9255, which removed the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children in terms of successional rights. Julio solidified his filiation with his father, Rafael, after the amendment took effect. Is Julio now entitled to inherit from Rafael's estate? Explain.