Medical masks become nuptial accessory

POST-VALENTINE Couples tie the knot with their mouths co­vered during a mass wedding organized by the Bacolod City government on Feb. 20. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

BACOLOD CITY—At least 220 couples tied the knot in a mass wedding on Thursday, their medical masks becoming the clearest sign of concern over the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Although this city is free of COVID-19, the couples wore medical masks during the mass wedding held at the Bacolod City Government Center as a precaution against the deadly virus.

The couples exchanged “I dos” at the wedding solemnized by Mayor Evelio Leo­nardia, and kissed each other through their masks distri­buted earlier by the City Health Office.

They were required to fill out forms declaring their health status and their travel history in the past 14 days.

During the wedding, dubbed as “Kasalan ng Bayan: 220 on 02-20-2020,” Leonardia said his administration wanted to help build and strengthen families. “If our families are strong, the city of Bacolod becomes strong, too,” he said.

Rep. Greg Gasataya, Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and Councilor Al Victor Espino cosponsored the event with the city government.

Post-Valentine treat

The city government has been sponsoring mass weddings annually as part of its traditional post-Valentine’s Day treat for the people of Bacolod.

John Paul Inventor, 39, who works as a messenger at a hospital, said the mass wedding was a fun affair even if they were wearing medical masks. “We were just being careful,” he said.

Inventor was married to Leslie Lumawag, 29, with whom he has two sons age 2 and 5 years old. He said they had long wanted to get married but were short of funds.

Glenn dela Cruz, 60, who wed his partner for 38 years, said Thursday’s wedding was an event to remember. “It was an unforgettable wedding. We kissed through our masks, and laughed,” he said. “We decided to join the mass wedding as it was free and we did not have to do any preparations,” he added.