Navotas City Mayor John Reynald "John Rey" Tiangco officiated the wedding of 51 Navoteño couples in the city on Monday, Feb. 12.
The union of the long-term partners in the "Kasalang Bayan" at the Navotas Sports Complex was witnessed by Navotas City Representative Toby Tiangco, Vice Mayor Tito Sanchez, and members of the city council.
The Kasalang Bayan, conducted in Navotas as part of the celebration of Valentine’s Day and its cityhood anniversary, aims to legalize the union of couples who have been living together.
“Most of our newlyweds have been together for years and we are honored to help them finally realize their dream of making their union legal and complete,” Rep. By Tiangco said.
“We hope this ceremony will lead to stronger and healthier relationship between our couples. Patunayan po ninyo sa lahat na mayroon talagang (Prove that there is indeed) forever,” he added.
Meanwhile, the mayor assured the newlyweds that the city government has services to help them and their family.
“We give priority to improving the status of Navoteño families. Well-functioning families make strong communities,” he said.
“Importante po ang papel ninyo sa patuloy na pagtaas ng antas ng buhay sa ating lungsod (Your role in improving the quality of life in the city is important). Nurture your children and guide them into becoming upstanding and productive members of our society,” he added.
Meanwhile, in Quezon City, 379 exchanged vows in mass weddings held on Sunday and Monday, Feb. 11 and 12.
The city government said that 179 couples were from the city first district, while 200 were from the second district.
Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte reminded the couples to put God in the center of their relationship and always choose each other for their relationship to last long and sweet.
The local government said that mass weddings in the other districts will be held until Feb. 18.