By Anthony Giron TAGAYTAY, Cavite – This historical ridge city has indeed evolved into a "love capital" with the thousands of local and foreign tourist couples and families visiting the area to enjoy its romantic scenes, cool climate and clean environment, particularly in February, the Valentine's Day Month. (WIKIPEDIA/ MANILA BULLETIN) The Department of Tourism (DoT) confirmed that Tagaytay, the so-called "City for all Seasons," has become the area most frequented by tourists in Region IV-A or the Calabarzon (Cavite-Laguna-Batangas_Rizal-Quezon) region considering its proximity to the National Capital Region, the site of the international and local airports. The beauty and splendor of the city, especially the panoramic view of Taal Volcano and Lake, and the serenity have made the area a “bonding place” or “stay-cation" for couples, families and children through the years. Thus, the area is one of the best places to say "I love you" to dear ones, especially on February 14, Valentine's Day. Many residents and visitors consider Tagaytay as the country’s “love capital” because its various romantic spots, particularly in areas along the so-called seven-kilometer "One Strip" area of restaurants, hotels and recreation and fun facilities overlooking Taal view. The mystical view of Taal, the world’s smallest volcano, and its surrounding lake, keeps the visiting people, especially couples and families, returning to the city. Some folk say that Tagaytay has the "magic" or charm that entice people to keep on coming back. FEAST OF LOVE The Tagaytay government celebrates Valentine’s Day with their “Pista ng Pag-ibig” or “Feast of Love” in honor of the city's "Our Mother of Fair Love." City Mayor Agnes D. Tolentino, her husband Cavite 8th District Abraham N. Tolentino and the administration officials traditionally lead the day's celebration. The City Tourism Office under Jelanne R. Mendoza, cited that this year's Hearts Day celebration would be simple but memorable. Tourism Office Staff Joy Medina said that the highlight celebration will be the "Kasalang Bayan" or Mass Wedding at the Sigtuna Hall of the Tagaytay International Convention Center on Thursday, February 14, where 45 resident-couples would say "I do's." Tagaytay is the only city in Cavite province that has consistently rendered "free wedding" for couple-residents on Valentine's Day in the last decade. The day's celebration also included the blessings of the city's new fire sub-station, San Jose Elementary School building and the local government-funded 50 new housing units. The mass wedding and the blessings of the buildings and house units will be graced by the mayor, Congressman Tolentino and other officials.