ILOILO CITY – Seven couples from the Ati indigenous peoples (IPs) group in Iloilo tied the knot in a Catholic church in Barotac Viejo, this province.
SEVEN Ati couples kiss after their wedding at Barangay Nueva Invencion Chapel in Barotac Viejo town, Iloilo province. (Saints Peter and Paul the Apostles Parish Youth Ministry)
Fr. Arvin Largado, director of Archdiocese of Jaro Commission on Indigenous Peoples (IPs), officiated the wedding in the chapel of Barangay Nueva Invencion on Monday, August 21.
Largado was assisted by Fr. Melvin Martin B. Daquilanea, administrator of the Saints Peter and Paul Parish.
Married were Joeren and Laila, Marissa and Romel, Daniel and Donna, Madan and Ella, Colapo and Mercedeta, Rambo and Jessica, and Dexter and Jolly Joy.
The wedding was backed by the Saints Peter and Paul Parish Youth Ministry, Holy Trinity Divine Healing Ministry, and officials of Barangay Nueva Invencion.
“This event marked an extraordinary and exceptional event, ultimately encapsulating the beauty and significance of their rich culture,” said the Youth Ministry in a Facebook post.
“The occasion not only served as a celebration of love and unity, but also served as a testament to the resilience and perseverance of these communities,” added the Youth Ministry.
Last July, six Ati couples in Tigbauan, Iloilo were married in Catholic rites.