SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Feb. 28 – Twenty-one couples exchanged vows in a mass wedding ceremony organized by the Bacnotan local government unit (LGU) on Monday, February 27, at the Farmers' Agri-Tourism Center in Barangay Baroro.

The "Kasalang Bayan" program, held annually in honor of the birthday of former mayor Luzviminda Fontanilla, aims to encourage couples to formalize their relationships.

Bacnotan Mayor Divine Fontanilla, who officiated the ceremony, highlighted the program's significance in strengthening families and communities. 

The LGU covered the expenses for the wedding, including marriage certificates, meals, rings, decorations, and bouquets.

Among the beneficiaries were Gerald and Joyce Gañola, a couple who expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to finally tie the knot after 13 years together.
 
"Nais ko pong magpasalamat kay Lord, sa ating mayor, at vice mayor, kasi sa 13 years po namin (sa aming relasyon) ay binigay na rin ni Lord (ang araw) na makapag-'I do' na ako sa kanya" Joyce said. 
 
(I want to thank the Lord, our mayor, and vice mayor. After 13 years, the Lord has finally given me this day to say 'I do' to him.) 
 
Each couple received additional gifts such as rice, a cash present, a Bible, and other wedding tokens.
 
Mayor Fontanilla emphasized the importance of legal marriage, citing its positive impact on the emotional well-being of children. 

The LGU encouraged residents to avail themselves of this program, assuring them of its continued support with allocated funds.
 
“Magpasalamat po tayo sa program na ito dahil hanggang ngayon ay meron pa rin tayong ganitong programa na mayroon ng budget na gagastusin para rito,” Fontanilla assured.
 
(Let us be grateful for this program. It continues to exist with a budget to support it.)
 
The Bacnotan LGU remains committed to providing free marriage services to its residents through the successful "Kasalang Bayan" program. (JCR/AMB/SGR/PIA La Union)