32 COUPLES SAY I DO, IN THE KASALAN NG BAYAN DUBBED BY SOME AS “MARRIED CHRISTMAS”

A memorable wedding ceremony had united 32 couples during the “Kasalan ng Bayan 2024: Road to Forever, The GWorks Way” on December 17, 2024, at the Provincial Capitol Lobby in Cabidianan, Nabunturan, Davao de Oro. It had marked the second batch of Kasalan ng Bayan for the year, offering a meaningful opportunity for couples who had not yet formalized their union to strengthen their commitment.

The event had been spearheaded under the Provincial Women Development Program, led by Governor Dorothy “Dotdot” M. Gonzaga. This initiative had demonstrated the Provincial Government’s steadfast commitment to fostering family ties, love, and unity among couples. Judge Cresenciana DC. Cruz officiated the ceremony, solemnizing the marriages in an atmosphere of joy and festivity.

Governor Dorothy Montejo Gonzaga expressed her congratulations to the couples during the event, stating, “Lipay kaming naglingkod sa gobyerno, pero mas labawng nalipay ang Labaw’ng Makagagahum sa inyong gibuhat. Ang pundasyon sa pamilya, blessed sa balaod, blessed sa kahitas-an.”  (We had been happy to serve in the government, but the Almighty had been even more pleased with what you had done. The foundation of the family had been blessed by law and by heaven.)

The Kasalan was made possible through GWorks way by offering free services to the couples, including the processing and payment of documents and counseling sessions facilitated by the Local Civil Registrar (LCR), Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), Provincial Agriculturist’s Office (PAO), and Municipal Health Office (MHO). Moreover, all wedding essentials were provided for free with sponsorships from various offices of the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro.

The event served as a testament to the province’s sincere efforts to promote strong family foundations and support its people, embodying the true essence of governance dedicated to the welfare of Davao de Oro’s residents.

(Harold Postrero, Photos by Albert Dayao of PIO)