QUEZON CITY, (PIA) — On the day dedicated to love, Nanay Amelita and Tatay Rodrigo Buizon stood hand in hand, ready to embark on a new chapter in their lives. At 68 years old, both were among the oldest couples to participate in the Valenzuela City Kasalang Bayan held on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2025.
Their journey to this moment was not without its challenges. Both Nanay Amelita and Tatay Rodrigo had experienced the profound heartache of widowhood. For years, they navigated life alone, cherishing the memories of their late spouses while searching for companionship in a world that felt a bit emptier.
It was at a community gathering where their paths first crossed. A shared smile and a few conversations led to a blossoming friendship that soon revealed itself as something deeper. “We found solace in each other,” Amelita shared in Filipino. “It felt like a second chance at love.”
On Valentine’s Day, the couple decided to take the leap and register for the Kasalang Bayan. “We wanted to celebrate our love publicly,” Rodrigo explained in Filipino. “It’s a testament that love can bloom again, no matter the age.”
The day of the event was filled with joy and excitement. As they arrived at the venue, adorned in traditional attire, they were greeted by the warm smiles of fellow couples and city officials. Mayor Wes Gatchalian personally welcomed them, recognizing their resilience and commitment to love.
During the ceremony, Amelita and Rodrigo exchanged vows, their voices steady despite the emotions that swelled within them. “I promise to cherish you, to support you, and to love you as we walk this path together,” Rodrigo declared, his eyes shining with sincerity. Amelita responded with equal fervor, “I vow to stand by your side and to create new memories filled with love.”
They are among the 236 couples who exchanged their sweet “I Do!” during the romantic event.
Mayor Gatchalian led the ceremony, extending warm greetings to the newlyweds. He announced a special surprise for each couple: a free honeymoon through a Hotel Gift Certificate. “May Forever!” he declared, capturing the spirit of the day.
Among the couples, 124 hailed from District 1 and 112 from District 2. All participants attended a Family Planning Seminar and Marriage Counseling to obtain their Marriage Licenses.
The couples received special attention from the city government, who provided them with a beautiful bridal bouquet and a small photo booth for memorable snapshots. As they celebrated the event, the atmosphere was charged with laughter, shared stories, and the clinking of glasses during the buffet reception.
Reflecting on their journey, Amelita said, “Life is too short to let love pass by. We’ve both lost so much, but finding each other has brought back joy to our lives.” Rodrigo nodded in agreement, adding, “Every day is a gift now. We are grateful for this moment and the future we have ahead of us.”
As the sun set on Valentine’s Day, Nanay Amelita and Tatay Rodrigo Buizon, and 235 other couples stood together, surrounded by friends and family, ready to embrace their new lives as a married couple.
Their story is a reminder that love knows no age and that it is never too late to find happiness again. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
