Village Connect
For 32 couples who had spent years building families, raising children, and facing life’s challenges together, October 12 became an unforgettable milestone as they finally exchanged wedding vows before God.
The Archdiocesan Shrine of Jesus, the Way, the Truth and the Life witnessed a heartwarming celebration of love and commitment during the 11th Kasalan sa SM, a meaningful initiative of the Felicidad T. Sy Foundation.
More than a traditional wedding ceremony, the occasion represented the fulfillment of dreams that many couples had postponed because of financial responsibilities and family priorities.
Through the program, couples with at least one partner employed within the SM Group received assistance covering the administrative requirements, wedding preparations, church ceremony, and other related expenses. Following the solemn rites, the newlyweds celebrated with their loved ones at SMX Convention Center Manila.
Among those whose dreams finally came true were Kimberly Lazaga, an operations assistant at Sunshine Place, and her husband, Willmar Maynite.
The couple originally planned to marry in 2024, but complications during Lazaga’s pregnancy required them to prioritize her health and their growing family.
Their hopes of a church wedding returned when Lazaga learned about the foundation’s program through her company’s human resources officer.
Another inspiring story came from Marichu Jabel and Jeffrey Moninio, who first met as college classmates and have shared 12 years together.
Both employed at the SM Department Store in Fairview, the couple had long wished to receive the sacrament of marriage. However, financial challenges and the responsibilities of raising their child repeatedly delayed their plans.
Despite these difficulties, Jabel never stopped praying for the opportunity to walk down the aisle.
When a colleague informed her that applications for Kasalan sa SM had reopened, she saw an opportunity to fulfill their long-awaited dream.
For these couples, marriage was not simply about exchanging rings or celebrating with family and friends. It represented a deeper spiritual commitment, strengthening relationships already built on years of love, sacrifice, and perseverance.
Inspired by SM Group matriarch Felicidad “Nanang” Sy and her belief that faith serves as the foundation of family life, the Felicidad T. Sy Foundation continues to help couples celebrate marriage through its Kasalan sa SM advocacy.
As the 32 newlyweds begin another chapter of their lives, they carry renewed hope, gratitude, and a shared commitment to building stronger families.
For them, the most meaningful wedding gift was not a grand celebration, but the blessing of a lifelong promise finally fulfilled.
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