Manila, Feb. 15 -- Hundreds of couples tied the knot in a Valentine's Day mass wedding rites organized by local government units across Negros Occidental over the weekend.

In this highly urbanized city, Mayor Greg Gasataya officiated the wedding of 202 couples at Bacolod City College Activity Center, coinciding with Civil Registration Month.

"Once the ceremony is completed, under the laws of the Philippines, you are already one. We are gathered here to share in the joy and love that each of you has brought to this occasion," Gasataya said in his message.

Each couple received a wedding cake, a bottle of wine, and special souvenirs.

Jeffrey and Suzzete Suanico of Barangay 18 received the "Love Knows No Age" award and led the ceremonial ...