43 couples wed for free in Minglanilla

CEBU, Philippines — Victor and Rosalinda Artajo of Barangay Cadulawan, Minglanilla had been living together for 21 years without receiving the holy matrimony because of the cost a church wedding would entail.

The couple, who earn their living by farming, only had a civil union in 1997. Rosalinda, 65, have always dreamt of walking down the isle  in a church wedding, thanks to the municipal government of Minglanilla for granting her wish.

Victor and Rosalinda were among the 43 couples whose church weddings were sponsored by the local government yesterday on the ocasion of the 56th birthday of Mayor Elanito Peña.

“Tungod sa among ka pobre wala mi kapakasal sa simbahan, nagpasalamat gyud mi nga naa ni nga programaha,” Rosalinda said.

Although they were not blessed with a child, Victor, who is turning 60 years old in July, said that their relationship has become stronger everyday. Their secret – understanding one another.

Peña said it was the third time that the municipal government sponsored a mass wedding under his administration.

He said the couples did not spend a single centavo for the preparation, including the reception. Each couple was also given a gift pack.

“Pagtabang ni sa kaigsuonan nga wala pa nakasal sa simbahan, ma-blessingan sa Ginoo kay mao man gyud na ang parte sa kaminyoon. Lahi man gyud ang dili makasal sa Simbahan,” Peña said.

The local government spent P200,000 for the activity. —FPL (FREEMAN)