For 30 lucky Pasigueño couples, today was the most memorable Valentine’s Day of their lives. Not only did they solemnize and legalize their union on this day, but they also got a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be serenaded by the country’s top folk-pop band Ben&Ben.
As a special treat for Pasigueño couples who tied the knot today during Pasig City’s annual Kasalang Bayan, the nine-piece band surprised the newlyweds and their guests with a heartfelt performance of their latest single Duyan.
It was a fitting song for the occasion, as it was originally the wedding vow of Ben&Ben frontman Miguel Benjamin, which he and the band decided to share with the world this year. In performing the song for today’s 30 newlywed Pasigueño couples, the band hoped to leave a lasting message of commitment, encouragement, and unconditional love.
“We’re entering a chapter of our lives where we feel like this is all uncharted territory: becoming full-fledged adults, being partners and spouses. Like the millions of people who are in this phase of their lives, there are many challenges. Things are never easy. We also get to discover many things about ourselves that we may not have really known before – our strengths, our weaknesses, and so much more,” Miguel shared.
“Every step that we take is made with unconditional love. That serves as our guide and our anchor in this journey, no matter how imperfect life is. This is the message we would like to impart with our song Duyan,” he added.
The Pasig City government holds the annual Kasalang Bayan for constituents who would like to experience a memorable wedding – including walking down the aisle and having a reception – without having to worry about expenses. The city government covers all expenses related to the event, including reception meals for six guests per couple. The ceremony is officiated by Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.
This year’s Kasalang Bayan was made even more special with Ben&Ben’s special performance. Aside from Duyan, the band also performed the other songs in their Mahiwaga Trilogy – Araw-Araw and Pagtingin. The trilogy features the band’s thematic arc on love and romantic relationships, with Duyan as the culminating song.
The song is accompanied by a music video starring real-life couple and actors Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos, who also appeared in the previous installments of the Mahiwaga Trilogy.
“Maraming salamat sa Ben&Ben! Tuwang-tuwa ang mga kinasal. It was an unexpected surprise for the couples, and made this day extra special for them,” Pasig City Mayor Victor Ma. Regis “Vico” Sotto said.
