Twenty-seven couples exchanged “I do’s” during the 26th mass wedding celebration last Oct. 5 conducted by the city government through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) with Mayor Benjamin Magalong as solemnizing officer.
The activity is part of the city’s observance of the Family Week with the theme, “Tungo sa Maginhawa, Matatag at Panatag na Pamilyang Pilipino sa Panahon ng Pandemya” and sub-theme, “Urbanisasyon at Pamilyang Pilipino: Magkaagapay sa Pagpatibay at Pagpapaunlad ng Bansa.”
Magalong reminded the couples to learn to set aside selfishness and be mindful of the consequences of their choices.
“It’s all about choices. Every day is a chance to choose to become good partners and good parents to your children,” he said.
As he congratulated the newlyweds, he also wished their respective relationships will stay strong and their years together be “blessed with love, vitality and prosperity.”
CSWDO head Liza Bulayungan said for the past 25 years, a total of 1,071 couples have participated and benefitted from the local government’s program.
She encouraged the couples to give priority to their family and spend enough time with them especially their children since “this is the only lasting treasure we have.”
“It is useless for us to be working hard if we do not give importance to our family. We should try our best to keep our own family intact despite difficulties in life,” Bulayungan advised.
She said the oldest couple are 74 (husband) and 66 (wife) years old who cohabited for 50 years and produced 11 children while the youngest newlyweds are both 23 years old with one child and have been together for three years.
Also in the event were Rep. Mark Go and several members of the city council who acted as wedding sponsors. – Gaby B. Keith
April 20, 2024
