Exploring the Rising Trend of Marriage Among Couples in the Philippines
It was a wedding day like no other for Jamaica Aguilar and Jade Rick Verdillo, who exchanged vows in a flooded Barasoain Church in the Philippines. Heavy rains from a seasonal monsoon and a typhoon left the church submerged, but the couple chose to celebrate their love despite the challenging conditions. Their wedding, which quickly went viral on social media, highlights the resilience of Filipinos in the face of natural disasters, while also shedding light on the ongoing flood issues that plague the region.
Wedding Amidst the Flood
Jamaica Aguilar, the 27-year-old bride, faced a tough decision the night before her wedding. With warnings from planners about worsening weather, she contemplated postponing the ceremony. “It was 50/50 for me — I was considering cancelling,” she shared. Ultimately, the couple decided to proceed, focusing on the significance of their union rather than the floodwaters surrounding them. Groom Jade Rick Verdillo expressed their joy after the ceremony, stating, “It was challenging, but we focused on what’s really important – our relationship and the people who love us.”
In a precautionary measure, the newlyweds took doxycycline, an antibiotic to prevent flood-related diseases like leptospirosis, shortly after their vows. The flooded church, which hosted a funeral just hours after the wedding, underscores the harsh realities faced by many in the region. Typhoon Wipha, the third storm to hit the Philippines this year, has already resulted in six fatalities and displaced thousands, highlighting the ongoing battle against severe weather events.
Recurring Flooding Issues
The flooding in Metro Manila is not a new phenomenon. The region, home to over 13 million residents, struggles with inadequate waste management and an aging sewage system dating back to the early 1900s. Public Works Minister Manuel Bonoan noted that the system is approximately 70% clogged, contributing to the persistent flooding. Geologist Dr. Mahar Lagmay pointed out that urban development has further exacerbated the situation, with roads built over natural waterways.
The Philippine government is aware of the pressing need for solutions. Bonoan mentioned that a master plan is being developed with assistance from the World Bank, which includes repairing 32 water pumping stations to alleviate pressure on the drainage system. “We have to sit down once and for all, at the soonest possible time, to find a solution,” he stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the flood crisis.
Government Response and Future Outlook
As the Philippines braces for more storms, the government faces scrutiny over its disaster response efforts. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to address the flooding issue in his upcoming State of the Nation Address. Recent criticisms arose when preparations for his speech were perceived as prioritizing political spectacle over immediate disaster relief efforts. Marcos, currently in Washington for trade negotiations, assured that disaster response agencies were prepared before his departure.
The ongoing flooding crisis has sparked discussions about long-term solutions. Newlywed Jade Rick Verdillo expressed hope for future improvements, suggesting investments in flood gates, pumping stations, and wider canals. “Improvements cannot be done in a day, but could be done in years… I’m positive about it, as long as we all focus on the mitigation,” he said. As the nation grapples with the realities of climate change and urbanization, the resilience of its people continues to shine through even in the most challenging circumstances.
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