STA. CRUZ. TALICUD ISLAND, November 18, 2022-- 21 newlyweds tied the knot during the “Kasalan ng Bayan” in Talicud Island, organized by the local government of Samal through the City Civil Registrar's Office headed by Mr. Joel Padillo. "Kasalan ng Bayan” is a program that gives a chance to couples who have been cohabiting for five (5) years or more to be wed for free and eventually legitimize their children. In his message, Mr. Padillo mentioned that the marriage will legalize them not just in the eyes of society but also in the eyes of God.

City Mayor Al David T. Uy presided over the ceremony and congratulated the couples for taking the chance to get married. "Dakong pasalamat namo kay nakadesisyon najud mo na makasal para maplastar ang inyong mga anak , ma legitimate na sila" Mayor Uy said.

Meanwhile, Ms. Rosalie Palma Gil, who exchanged vows with Mr. Arnel Tanilon, her partner for eleven (11) years, expressed gratitude to the local government for making their dream of being married come true. She also shared that it is their longtime desire but was just hindered by their financial status.

“Nagpasalamat mi sa ingun ani na higayon kay nakasal mi kay libre raman. Wala mi bayad bisan piso. Dako kaayog tabang sa amoa labi na nga gamit kaayo sa among mga anak. Magamit dayun sa ilang pagskwela ang among marriage contract” she added.

After the ceremony, the marriage contracts were signed along with the "ninangs and ninongs" (godparents) of the couples, and each pair received two (2) round cakes as their wedding gift. They will also receive printed copies of their wedding photos.

Joining the memorable event were City Environment and Natural Resources Officer in- Charge, Atty. Iryshell Villegas, Barangay Council of Barangay Sta. Cruz, Dadatan, Cogon, and Linosutan, and families and friends of the newlyweds. (IGACOS-CIO/NBC /RConcepcion)