Malaybalay City to reward couples married for 50 years with P50K
This month has no doubt become breakup season for several celebrity couples. If you're still looking for a sign to continue your pursuit of forever, then you're in luck — that is, if you live in Malaybay City.
City Councilor Niko Aldeguer announced earlier this week that the local government has passed an ordinance giving couples who have reached their 50th wedding anniversary a P50,000 cash incentive.
In a Facebook post on June 7, Aldeguer said that the city's Golden Wedding Anniversary Ordinance aims to celebrate these wedded pairs' milestones, as staying married for 50 years has become rare in couples.
In addition, the ordinance acknowledges the couples' contribution to their community since he said, strong and harmonious families are the foundation of society. "Sa Malaybay, naay (may) Forever," the councilor said in his post.
Couples can qualify for the incentive if their marriage is valid and registered with the City Civil Registry of Malaybay City.
They must be permanent residents of the city for at least six years or, if one of the married individuals had to relocate elsewhere for work, their respective spouses should have remained in the city for at least six years at the time of the celebration of their golden wedding anniversary.
Meanwhile, those in polygamous marriages can only avail themselves of the incentive if their first locally registered valid marriage has reached the 50-year mark. Couples who have separated, whether legally or not, cannot apply for the incentive.
The ordinance states it is effective immediately upon arrival.
In an interview with MindaNews, Aldegeur said the budget for the program will be deducted from the city’s Gender and Development Fund or the Special Appropriation Fund.
”At least (the GAD funds) can be used properly. This is one way of inspiring couples,” he added.