Love filled the air as 36 couples said “I do” in a free mass wedding ceremony held on June 20, just in time for both the celebration of Agew na Dagupan and the traditional wedding month of June.

The yearly event, led by the Dagupan City Population Office, is part of a city initiative to help indigent couples make their unions legal, especially those who have lived together for over five years and already have children.

“’Pag mass wedding, nalilibre natin sa papeles ang mga couple. Lahat ng babayaran na dokumento hanggang sa registration, libre na,” Malen Bernadette Pilon, Dagupan City Population Officer, said.

Among the newlyweds were 18-year-olds Jairus Abubio of Barangay Mamalingling and Patricia Arcega of San Jacinto, this year’s youngest couple.

Together for four years, the pair already has one child. Their story began on social media.

“Bam, ipagpatuloy mo lang mga ginagawa mo. Mag-ingat ka lagi,” Jairus said to his bride.

“Bam, sana ‘wag mo kaming pababayaan ng anak mo. Sana mahalin mo kami. Tapos mag-iingat ka palagi sa work mo. I love you, mahal na mahal kita,” Patricia replied.

Family members cheered and celebrated the couples on their big day, many were grateful for the support that made the event possible.

Meanwhile, a mass tree-planting activity was held at the Tondaligan dumpsite.

Over 1,500 coconut seedlings, acacia, and other plants were planted to promote environmental sustainability.

Residents also enjoyed a citywide government caravan at the City Plaza, where they offered a wide range of free services from various agencies.

These included nutrition services for pregnant women like Cherry Ann Viniya Bravao, 23, who is expecting her third child.

“Maraming salamat po sa serbisyong ito. Lalo na sa mga buntis,” Bravo said.

The City Health Office conducted free medical checkups, while the City Agriculture Office distributed farming and fishing equipment.

The City Veterinary Office also gave free vaccinations and services for pets.

The CDRRMO turned over rescue vehicles to selected barangays, and other booths provided free haircuts and additional assistance for locals.