San Fernando celebrates love with mass weddings, festivals

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — Valentine’s Day in the city was marked by dual celebrations of love and community spirit, as the local government hosted its grand "Kasalan King Balen 2026" and launched the "Love Month Food Trucks" festival.

The "Kasalan King Balen 2026" saw numerous couples exchanging vows in a mass wedding ceremony at the Mini Convention Center, Heroes Hall. Mayor Vilma Balle-Caluag officiated the unions, delivering a heartfelt message to the couples, urging them, "Ekayu mikakawani, ne?" (Don't ever separate, alright?).

This year’s event built on the city’s tradition, which saw 15 Fernandino couples tie the knot in the “unang kasalan” in 2025. The ceremony brought together couples from diverse backgrounds, all sharing the goal of building Fernandino families, upholding the sanctity of marriage, and navigating life’s challenges together.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the "Love Month Food Trucks" officially kicked off its month-long celebration at Capital Town’s Rainwater Park. The event showcased a vibrant array of food trucks offering local and specialty favorites, complemented by film showings, live entertainment, and activities. The festival runs until February 28, 2026, inviting families, friends, and couples to enjoy evenings of music, food, and meaningful moments.

Complementing these events was a Valentine’s Day Trade Fair in the Poblacion area of Sto. Rosario, offering additional avenues for celebration.

Mayor Caluag said these Valentine’s Day events are part of the broader "Kaganapan 2026" celebration, marking the 25th Cityhood Anniversary of San Fernando, and highlighting the city’s commitment to fostering strong community ties and vibrant local culture.

"Maraming paraan upang ipadama ang pagmamahal sa bawat isa. Sana, sa naging regalo ng Syudad sa inyo, naipadama namin ang pusung maka-Kayabe, pusung Fernandino," she stated.