Eleven couples, most of whom are differently abled, got married in a wedding ceremony sponsored by the Taguig City government on Wednesday.

The “kasalang bayan” was held at the Lakeshore Hall, Barangay Lower Bicutan, with the rings, arrhae, wine, cake, and venue sponsored by the city government.

The wedding, which carried the theme, “Sa Lungsod ng Taguig, Kasalang Bayan para sa mga Taong may Kapansanan, PWeDe!” was organized by the Persons with Disabilities Affairs Office, in coordination with the Civil Registry Office.

According to the city government, the 11 couples cohabitated for over five years. The oldest PWD among them is a 51-year-old man who has been with his partner for 25 years.

“More than sending the message that marrying for love is possible for our citizens with disabilities, we want to assure Taguigueno PWDs (persons with disabilities) that they can enjoy the same rights as everybody else, and that includes the right to establish a happy family and a loving home, and so much more,” Mayor Lani Cayetano said.

She said the city also protects PWDs against discrimination, and provides them with benefits.

The city government said all PWD organizations across the barangays receive monthly allowances ranging from PHP500 to PHP3,000. All registered PWDs also receive a PHP1,000 birthday cash gift.

Taguig City also launches medical and dental missions and livelihood training directly helping PWDs. Opportunities are also opened at job fairs, with the local government unit doing its share of hiring PWDs.

Paralympians are sent to sporting events, and children with special needs can get education and physical therapy at Sentro Kalinga, the city government said. (PNA)