Quezon Couple Wed After 13-Year Relationship in Civil Ceremony

Merianita Barbon, 60, and Apolinario Roldan, 72, took a significant step in their relationship by officially marrying in a civil ceremony on August 27, 2025. The event, conducted at the Mulanan mayor’s office, was officiated by Mayor Aris Aguirre.

The couple had shared more than 13 years together before formally entering into courtship just a month prior to their wedding. Mayor Aguirre highlighted the enduring nature of their love, stating, "Age is just a number, love wins!" He further remarked, "It is heartwarming to think they courted for only a month, yet their love has spanned over a decade. Now they have chosen to make their union legal and official — a testament that true love knows no age. Congratulations!"

In the Philippines, cohabitation—even for many years—does not legally equate to marriage. To obtain the legal benefits and protections such as property rights, inheritance, and decision-making authority for each other, couples must formalize their relationship through a legal ceremony.

This recent marriage underscores the importance of formalizing long-term partnerships to secure legal recognition and the rights that come with it.