Taguig City Mayor Lani Cayetano officiated the ceremony for the pairs of senior citizens from Taguig, all celebrating their 50th or more years of togetherness.
"When you first stood before the altar 50 years ago, seeking the Lord's blessing to be married, you promised to love, respect, and cherish each other. Fifty years is a considerable span of time. You are a great example to our community and to many couples who everyday strive to fulfill their promise to be together for a lifetime," Cayetano stated.
After the ceremony, a bountiful feast and entertainment were prepared by the Office of the Senior Citizen Affairs (OSCA). Each elderly couple who renewed their vows also received 25 kilograms of rice.
Gertrudes Alowa from Barangay South Daang Hari thanked Mayor Cayetano and the City Council for the opportunity they provided to celebrate her and her partner Rogelio's 53rd anniversary. She also gave advice on how to maintain a long-lasting relationship.
"You should give way to each other. When one gets angry, the other one has to be humble. If both get heated, it may lead to separation. That's what's needed, each one has to yield. We, as a couple, are grateful because without the Mayor, we wouldn't have reached this," she shared.
Napoleon Briñas from Barangay Bambang, who was also remarried to his lifelong partner Carmen of 50 years, shared his advice.
"Advice for newlyweds: We are not perfect people, and we go through times when we make mistakes. What's important is that you know how to ask for forgiveness. And what's more important, your life partner is prepared to accept and understand out of love," Briñas advised.
The city government of Taguig continues to provide assistance and happiness to Taguig's senior citizens through free checkups, medicines, wheelchairs, walking sticks, hearing aids, and relaxation at the Center for the Elderly on Ipil Street, Barangay North Signal, Taguig City.
(Photos by Taguig PIO)
