60 years strong: Couple’s love story continues with Diamond Anniversary celebration

On February 27, 2025, a historic milestone was celebrated—a Diamond Wedding Anniversary marking 60 years of love and commitment.

Dorothy Ramos Gatuslao and Louie Ocampo Gatuslao renewed their vows in a solemn ceremony at Santuario de San Antonio in Forbes Park, Makati City, the same church where they exchanged vows 60 years ago in 1965. The well-attended Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Boogie Tacdoro, Fr. Mark Izon and Fr. Ruel Jundos, who traveled from Bacolod City to be part of the special occasion.

As the reception began, Fr. Mark Izon led a prayer before meals, inviting guests to partake in the dinner service. Throughout the evening, guests were treated to live violin music, setting a warm and elegant atmosphere. A nostalgic audio-visual presentation followed, showcasing photographs from the couple’s journey—from their early years to six decades of shared memories with family and friends.

The celebration featured outstanding musical performances. Singer-belter Malou Manabat and Emcy Corteza, accompanied by Poppin’ Jazz, delivered stunning renditions of timeless classics. New Minstrels crooner Kash Gatuslao serenaded the couple with a heartfelt performance of “Through the Years” by Kenny Rogers, inviting them to dance together. Garrick Dizon later performed “One in a Million You” by Larry Graham and “Sway” by Michael Bublé. The couple’s eldest son and only granddaughter surprised everyone with a specially arranged version of “Hello Dolly” by Louis Armstrong, which they thoughtfully crafted for the occasion. Accompanied by Poppin’ Jazz and Kash Gatuslao, their performance added another heartfelt moment to the celebration.

From left to right: (first row) Paolo Periquet, Alexis Periquet, Negros Board Member Doc Rita Gatuslao, Anne Abello, Philip Abello, (second row) Ferdie Agustin, Lyn D. Agustin, Corcor D. Bitong, Marili G. Gonzaga, Joann C. Maldonado, Gary Gatuslao, Gj Gatuslao, Dorothy and Louie Gatuslao, Gerrard Philippe Gatuslao, JC Gatuslao, Ryan Y. Gatuslao, Marivic L. La’O, (third row) Cheri Santiago, Michelle Magsaysay Bascon, Emily Gatuslao, Antonette, Joe Gatuslao, Cora S. Yatco, Francine Isabella Y. Gatuslao, Cristine C. Gatuslao, Glenscot Hilton, Glenn R. Gatuslao, Atty. Ria Villanueva Dam, (last row) Johnny Limjap, Sonny Bitong, Bacolod Rep. Monico Puentebella, Ignacio “Jun” Santiago, Tom Bascon, Millete and David Kolpak, Julie and Garrick Dizon, Lilai Villavicencio, Lisa and Dennis Gatuslao, Mitch Remitio and Andrew Ramos.

The couple then took to the dance floor, sharing intimate moments with each other and their loved ones. As the evening drew to a close, Dorothy and Louie shared a tender moment, feeding each other a slice of their anniversary cake and toasting with champagne.

To conclude the event, a final video presentation featured highlights from the day, along with a reflection from Dorothy on how she and Louie met, as well as the secrets to a long-lasting marriage. The video also included touching messages from their children, grandchildren, and niece, leaving a deep sense of love and appreciation for the couple’s beautiful legacy.

With 110 guests in attendance, the Diamond Wedding Anniversary was an evening filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories—a testament to six decades of unwavering commitment, partnership and faith in Christ.