Some 100 Fernandino couples were married for free in a mass ceremony dubbed ‘Kasalan king Balen’ on February 11 at the Mini Convention, Heroes Hall.
This event was held in line with the celebration of the 16th Cityhood Anniversary of San Fernando and in observance of the Civil Registration Month this February.
During the wedding rites officiated by Mayor Edwin ‘EdSa’ Santiago, he said that the ‘Kasalan king Balen’ is conducted yearly to ‘help couples who want to have legitimate relationships but cannot afford the wedding expenses.’
Aside from free rings, cakes and food packages, the city government also sponsored the issuance of marriage licenses and contracts.
“Hinihikayat din natin sila na magparehistro ng tama hindi lang ng kanilang mga kasal kundi maging ng mga kapanganakan o kamatayan ng kanilang mga kapamilya,” Santiago said.
Mayor Edsa also extended his congratulatory message to the couples and stressed that a successful marriage greatly contributes to the common good and the city’s prosperity.
“Ang masayang pagsasama ay sangkap ng isang matatag na pamilya na siya namang susi sa nagkakaisa at matagumpay na komunidad,” Santiago added.
Also present during the event were Board Member Rosve Henson, Kaganapan 2017 Chairperson Robbie Hizon with co-chair Jun Pineda, Community Affairs Division Head Engr. Jose Diaz, City Civil Registrar Rimando Umali and representatives from the Philippine Statistics Authority and Lumina Homes.