The Philippines, with its natural beauty and warm welcoming people, provides a wide range of choices for couples on the lookout for a perfect setting at which to exchange marital vows. From centuries-old grand cathedrals in the middle of metropolitan areas to out-of-the way chapels in remote corners of the archipelago or on isolated beaches amidst breathtaking views, options abound for unique ways to start a lifetime of wedded bliss. Filipino bridal and wedding artistry has come into its own for international clients. Filipino wedding consultants, who are known for their attention to detail, impeccable workmanship and professionalism, can ensure worry-free preparations and arrange for every single detail in planning an event couples and their guests will surely treasure for a lifetime. And, due to continuing favorable exchange rates, high couture wedding gowns, complete musical ensembles, fancy wedding cakes, unique flower arrangements, professional photography, and lavish banquets in swanky hotels can be had at a fraction of what it will cost back home.

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ROMANTIC GETAWAYS

Tagaytay - a tranquil ambience and fresh mountain air make Tagaytay a perfect setting for romantic escapades. At 2,500 feet above sea level and within only an hour’s drive from Manila, the famous Tagaytay ridge provides a spectacular view of the world’s smallest volcano, Taal Volcano, and is a major destination for couples who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan Manila to be pampered at any of the health spas and wellness centers in the area.

Bicol - the many different adventure activities in the Bicol Region make for a great honeymoon destination for naturally adventurous and thrill-seeking couples. Whether it be trekking through the near perfectly-shaped cone of the Mayon Volcano; trying out wakeboarding or water skiing at the CamSur Watersports Complex; swimming with the whalesharks in Donsol; or enjoying the beautiful scenery at Caramoan Peninsula, Bicol offers several different unforgettable and unique experiences couples can conquer, share, and remember for years to come.

Boracay - a paradise for sun worshippers and lovers of crystal clear waters that change colors from shimmering blue to deep emerald, Boracay is one of the best beach destinations in the world and the perfect place for romance. Couples can enjoy the sun, sea, and powder like white sand that surrounds the island browse the many shopping centers and flea markets, and engage in a wide variety of aquatic sports activities.

Cebu - the Philippine’s oldest city, Cebu is the perfect mix of culture, business, and tropical relaxation. The city itself offers all the comforts of modern living with world-class hotels and shopping malls while preserving all its heritage churches and period structures that provide a romantic backdrop for lovers and honeymooners. A mere 30 minutes away is the island of Mactan which boasts of beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters as well as some of the country’s top spa’s and beach resorts for couples to unwind, indulge and relax.

Palawan - 1,780 islands and islets strewn across the western border of the Philippine archipelago make up the province of Palawan. White sand beaches, breathtaking limestone cliffs, storied lagoons, and deserted islets ringed by colorful coral reefs offer couples a uniquely private setting amidst all the natural beauty and ecological bounty Palawan has to offer. They can enjoy snorkeling, diving, kayaking, dolphin and whale watching, or simply soaking up the rays and enjoying each other’s company under the warm Philippine sun

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GETTING MARRIED

1. Philippine law requires non-Filipinos intending to marry in the country to present a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage issued by the proper consular official of the foreign party’s state of citizenship. Alternatively, US citizens may present an Affidavit in Lieu of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage attesting to the absence of any impediments to a valid marriage that is sworn to before an American consular officer. If both parties to the intended marriage are foreigners, each must secure his or her own separate Certificate or Affidavit.

2. The couple must apply for a Marriage License at the Local Civil Registrar of the municipality where the wedding will take place before they must exhibit the following documents: 
     • Certificate/Affidavit of Legal Capacity to Contract Marriage
     • Death Certificate or Divorce Decree to evidence the termination of any previous marriage/s
     • When one party is a Filipino, a copy of the birth, baptismal or residence certificate of the
        Filipino bride or groom
     • Parental consent or advice as required under Philippine law
     • Certificate of attendance in a Pre-Marital Counseling and Family Planning Seminar

3. There is a 10-day waiting period from the submission of the foregoing application and documents before a Marriage License will issue, which will be valid for 120 days and may be used anywhere in the Philippines.

4. Once issued, the Marriage License may be presented to a person authorized to perform a marriage ceremony such as a judge, a justice of the peace, a municipal or city mayor, a priest, or an authorized minister of a religion.

5. Additional requirements may be necessary for religious wedding ceremonies depending on the denomination.

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WEDDING TRADITIONS

The country’s Spanish Colonial period left behind a good number of beautifully structured churches. Several of these have both cultural and architectural significance and served as wedding venues to members of the Philippine elite. The San Agustin Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, the Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion Church in Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur, the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, and the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church in Ilo-ilo are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage Baroque Churches and offer the best backdrop for traditional church ceremonies. Also worth considering are the other notable Spanish-era churches and chapels scattered all over the country which include the Baclayon Church in Bohol; Basilica del Santo Niño in Cebu; Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Paco Church and San Sebastian Church both in Manila.

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT THE PHILIPPINE DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM