Mass Wedding of Indigenous Mangyan Held in the Forest
A mass wedding of 18 Mangyan couples was held in the forest of Occidental Mindoro, in celebration of love and nature on Earth Day.
The Mangyan are the indigenous peoples of Mindoro, an island in the Philippines. They are known for their rich culture, unique traditions, and deep connection to nature. They traditionally live in the mountains and forests of Mindoro, where they farm, craft, and practice sustainable living.
The Mangyan people are often known for their handwoven products, intricate writing system, and peaceful lifestyle. Despite modern changes, many Mangyan communities continue to preserve their cultural identity and protect their ancestral lands.
On a Tuesday afternoon (April 22, 2025), 18 couples from the Alangan Mangyan tribe tied the knot in a mass wedding held in the forest of Sitio Makambang, Barangay Poblacion in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro.
The special occasion took place right in time for Earth Day. The wedding ceremony was unlike any other. Instead of a church or a traditional hall, the couples exchanged vows under the shade of tall mahogany trees.
Mayor Bong Marquez officiated the wedding, responding to the tribe’s request to make their unions legally recognized. The event not only celebrated love but also honored the rights of the indigenous community as fellow citizens of the country.
Before the actual wedding, each couple planted a Narra tree, following a local rule that encourages tree planting as part of every civil wedding. The event reminded everyone of the importance of caring for the environment, especially during Earth Day.
Aside from giving legal recognition to the couples, the activity also aims to promote the advocacy of environmental protection and encourage the cooperation of the entire community toward a greener future.
In a previous post, a priest from viral wedding video not at church on Monday mass
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