can i apply separation if my husband is out of the country

can i apply separation with my husband in out of the country
were married in west 23 yrs last sept
were in LDR 3 years now.I want only financial support for 2 kids a 12 and 18 yrs old.
Reason for applying separation are:
Im not happy since then in our relationship but bec of our kids i stayed.Im emotionally and mentally drained from the relationship which affect my well being.Were not compatible with lots of things like decision making and plans in life.He has low emotional quotient he doesn't care even i told him what our problems he always doesn't care.I only keeping him bec of my kids.He has Psychologically incapable as well he doesn't care even my needs as a wife.
Everything turns into a nightmare and unhappiness in my side. Hope this give you ideas why i want to be legally separated since no divorce here in the philippines. Pls give a mins read my concern and if u can give me quotation how much if i file for it and how can he knows im filling.
Thank you