Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan invited the public to the first-ever "Wedding Expo" at the Robinson's Place in Ermita, Manila.
The expo will run from May 6 to 10 to showcase wedding services such as venue, clothing, makeup, wedding ring and paraphernalia, photography, catering and souvenirs.
Manila Vice Mayor John Marvin "Yul Servo" Nieto and Permits Bureau Chief Levi Facundo and representatives from the Manila Civil Registry under Encar Ocampo were present during the opening.
The mayor said the expo showcases local talents and industries that deserve to be harnessed.
It also poses a challenge for local entrepreneurs to give their best and enhance their creativity, the lady mayor added.
In his speech, Facundo said the expo complements Lacuna-Pangan's stance to support local products in the city, including restaurants and all other kinds of establishments.
He thanked Robinson's management for lending a venue, saying the exhibit had long been planned but they could not find a fitting place to get the project started.
The exhibitors, he said, are mostly from Manila.
The mayor herself had directed the Manila Civil Registry to also put up a booth in the area to help couples who need guidance for marriage requirements.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Nieto said that he and the mayor have always been supportive of entrepreneurs offering local products and services.
Nieto said the expo also meant to help couples make their union highly memorable.
"Hindi lang kami nagpo-promote ng mga negosyong tumutugon sa mga kasalan, ngunit pinalalakas din namin ang isang kapaligirang naghihikayat sa pagkamalikhain, pagbabago at palikipagtulungan (Not only do we promote businesses that cater to weddings, but we also foster an environment that encourages creativity, innovation and collaboration)," he said.
"Ang expo na ito ay isa ring pagdiriwang ng talento, simbuyo ng damdamin at dedikasyon ng lahat ng nagnanais makalikha ng di malilimutang araw para sa mga taong nais ipagdiwang ang kanilang pagmamahalan (This expo is also a celebration of the talent, passion and dedication of everyone who wants to create an unforgettable day for those who want to celebrate their love)," he added.