After 20 years and 4 kids, Gilbert Caudilla and Susana Taduran Tadeo finally decided to tie the knot this Valentine’s Day, 2025. The romantic pair joins a dozen other couples taking vows at the “Kasalang Tribu” held at a multi-purpose hall in Barangay Niño Jesus, Iriga City.

Organized by the City Local Civil Registrar, the mass wedding was arranged for tribal members belonging to the Agta-Tabangnon — an indigenous group living near the slopes of Mount Iriga. Most of whom have been longtime partners.

Gilbert, 48, a local of Niño Jesus, courted Susana in 2004 which went over for a year before she finally “waved the white flag.” Today, she is anything but at ease: “Kinakabahan po ako.”

City Mayor Wilfredo Rex C. Oliva officiated the ceremony and provided an engaging but guiding message to the bride and grooms. Speaking in Rinconada dialect, the mayor delivered:

“The situation is different now. Before, maybe whenever Ma’am would look at Sir, she would say, “Oh, my crush! So macho and handsome!” And Sir, on the other hand, would think, “Wow, so beautiful and sexy!” Back then, all they see are each other’s good qualities. But now that you’re living together, this is no longer just about crush. You will soon discover that your spouse also has flaws and not-so-good traits. Now, your vow is for a lifetime. So no matter how bad your spouse’s attitude may be, you have to live with it. The challenge now is how to help change your partner for the better. Because if not, that will be the cross you have to bear.”

Addressing the couples with children, Mayor Oliva spoke on the value of education.

“It’s important to raise your children properly and provide them a good education. This is a lifetime commitment. Once you sign, there’s no turning back.”

The mayor also gifted each couple with a sack of rice and P1,000 in cash.

Kasalang Tribu concluded with the exchange of rings, a ceremonial wine toast, and a celebratory banquet.

(Photos and text: Elmer Valenzuela)