After 25 years of living together under one roof, Nilo Pomarca, 53, and Marivic Solanga, 49, from San Julian in Eastern Samar, proved that marriage indeed knows no age limit.

Nilo and Marivic finally tied the knot on Valentine's Day. 

They were one of the 51 couples who participated in the recent Kasalang Bayan (mass wedding), an annual event organized by the local government of San Julian to celebrate Civil Registration Month.

Nilo, a taho vendor, shared that they have both wanted to get married since they decided to live together. However, due to financial limitations, putting food on the table and sending their five children to school has always been their top priority.

“Nalilipay ak nga kasal na kami yana kay diri na kukuri-an an amon mga anak hit ira mga papeles ha eskwelahan ngan mababalyu-an na gihap ang apelyido han amon suhag,” Nilo said.

(I am happy to be married today because our children will no longer struggle with processing their school requirements, and our eldest will now carry my surname.)

When Marivic learned about the free wedding, she was also tempted to sign up. She mentioned that if a younger couple can do it, they could also consider it, given that they have been living together for almost 25 years.

“Kaya sabi ko sa kanya pasukin na natin ito kahit walang handa kundi para sa mga anak natin magpakasal tayo,” Marivic said.

(I suggested to him, "Let's get married for the sake of our children, even if we don't have a celebration afterward.")

Marivic shared that communication is the secret to their lasting relationship of 25 years. Whenever they encounter any problems or difficulties, they discuss and work them out together. This is why they have been able to stay together for so long.

Aljon Operario, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Civil Registrar, mentioned that it was high time for them to level up their relationship, be legally recognized, and enjoy all the privileges that come with it. He added that the Kasalang Bayan is a way for unmarried couples to receive civil recognition through marriage.

Meanwhile, Ruel Capones, the Philippine Statistics Authority registration officer, encouraged newlyweds who have children born out of wedlock to process their children's legitimation. 

He stressed that legitimization is a responsibility of all parents in order to provide their children with legal protection and social acceptance.

San Julian Municipal Mayor Dennis Estaron revealed that the 51 couples added up to 807 couples whose marriages he solemnized and officiated since he took office in 2016.

“Dara kadamo han mga problema, siguro yana la an iba nakapag-desisyon magpakasal pero tigamni niyo nga diri nababase hit kadako hit gastos an pag-aasawa, an importante naghihigugmaay kamo,”  Estaron said.

(Despite various challenges, some couples have opted to postpone their weddings. However, it's crucial to remember that the essence of marriage isn't determined by the extravagance of the wedding, but rather by the love and commitment between two individuals.)

Atty. PJ Evardone, a member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, also attended the occasion, and sponsored the photo booth with complimentary framed wedding pictures as gifts to the newlyweds.

“May your marriage be full of love, joy, happiness, and contentment,” he said.

“Malaki talaga pasasalamat ko sa ganitong programa, nakatagamtam kami hin libre nga kasal, wara na gastos kaya damo nga salamat ha LGU San Julian hini nga programa,” Marivic expressed her appreciation for the free wedding.

(I'm very thankful for this kind of program; we have availed of a free wedding  with no expenses. Thank you so much to LGU San Julian for this program.)

The newlyweds, Nilo and Marivic, were also awarded tokens and certificates for being the first wedding applicants, having the longest relationship before getting married, and having the oldest groom. (VTG, PIA Region VIII)