AFTER working as a domestic helper in Lebanon for three years, Mildred Rosal returned to the country in 2008 and found happiness in Cebu.
She and her 44-year-old husband Leo Rosal were among 27 couples who got married in a mass wedding held at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.
The activity is sponsored by the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).
The agency’s program consists of a free church wedding and reception in the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC).
Mildred said she was happy to be spared the cost of a church wedding.
“I’m glad that this program is for free because of our financial constraints,” Mildred said.
Mildred and Leo, who were married in a civil wedding four years ago, lived in Camotes Island in north Cebu.
To save on fare, the couple traveled to Cebu with other fishermen who were on their way to the city.
They also received P500 as pocket money from relatives for their Cebu trip.
Mildred said they are staying with relatives in Danao City after the wedding.
Another couple, Engr. Julito Cuizon and Laureta Cuizon were also thankful they could avail of OWWA’s mass wedding program.
The 70-year-old Julito of Lapu-Lapu City and Laureta Cuizon, 61, a retired social worker, met in Maasin, Leyte province where he was assigned as a district engineer.
They have two children, one of whom is a seaman.
“I think it’s time to get married, and the opportunity to do it for free came so I’m happy about this,” Laureto said.
OWWA information officer Rodelyn Gimena said they may consider holding another edition of the program to help other couples who wish to be married in a church wedding. USJ-R AB English Intern Michelle Joy L. Padayhag