There were 334 couples who tied the knot in Bacolod and Kabankalan cities on Saturday, Valentine’s Day.
In Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya officiated a mass wedding for 202 couples at the Bacolod City College Activity Center.
He also provided a small wedding cake, food, wine, and special souvenirs for each couple as tokens of the city government’s support and recognition of their commitment.
During the rites, Gasataya emphasized the legal and lifelong significance of marriage under Philippine law.
“This is not something to be taken lightly. Once the ceremony is completed, under the laws of the Philippines, you are already one. We are gathered here today to share in the joy and love that each of you has brought to this occasion,” Gasataya said.
Adding excitement to the day, four special awards were presented to couples who embodied the spirit of love, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office (BCCO) said.
Winners received cash prizes and gift certificates from AIDA’s Chicken Inasal.
The special awardees were:
• Forever Young at Heart Award: Kyle and Vanjie Loriezo, recognized for remaining youthful and vibrant in spirit.
• Love Knows No Age Award: Jeffrey and Suzzete Suanico of Barangay 18, honored for their love transcending age and time. They also led the ceremonial signing of marriage for all 202 couples.
• Best Dressed Couple Award: Elton John Novilla and Messi Rebamonte, recognized for exemplifying grace, confidence, and timeless style.
• Sweetest Love Award: Ronnie Panohinog and Camille Anne Panohinog, recognized for their outstanding affection and connection.
The mass wedding also became a symbol of hope for couples who had faced difficult circumstances, the BCCO said.
Among them were Rolando Toledo and Sharon Gaho, who had lived together for 21 years while struggling with homelessness.
Anjanette Servano, head of the Bacolod Anti-Mendicancy Management Division under the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), said the couple and their five children were rescued two weeks ago along San Juan Street, in front of Police Station 1.
The rescue was part of the city’s ongoing efforts to assist families in vulnerable situations.
Rolando and Sharon previously worked as barkers, while their children helped by asking for alms and selling small items. Through the city government’s intervention, the family is now temporarily sheltered at the Arao Relocation Site in Barangay Vista Alegre, where they are receiving assistance while preparing for a more stable future.
City officials, barangay leaders, wedding sponsors, and families joined the mayor during the ceremony as witnesses and supporters.
KABANKALAN CITY
In Kabankalan City, Mayor Benjie Miranda officiated the Valentine’s Day mass wedding ceremony, Kasalan sa Kabankalan 2026, where 132 couples officially tied the knot at Zaycoland Resort and Hotel on Saturday.
The City Government of Kabankalan provided free wedding rings, wedding cakes, lunch, a photo booth, and a half-sack of rice for each newlywed couple, a press release from Kabankalan City said.
Vice Mayor Divina Gracia S. Miranda reminded the couples to be each other’s partner in joy, in sorrow, and in every challenge life may bring. She also encouraged them to always respect one another and to continue loving even during difficult times.*
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