So, you’ve chosen Cebu as your dream wedding destination – congratulations! Whether you’re envisioning a magical beach ceremony on Mactan Island, a romantic vow exchange at a historic church, or a stylish resort wedding, Cebu offers endless options for couples ready to say “I do.” But before you get swept away in the beauty of the island and start dreaming about the perfect dress or the most stunning venue, let’s talk about the first step: registering your wedding in Cebu.
Yes, there’s some paperwork to deal with – but don’t worry! We’ve got your back with a step-by-step guide to ensure everything is in order, so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating love.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents – It’s Not as Boring as It Sounds, Promise!
First things first, let’s talk paperwork. We know, it’s not the most glamorous part of wedding planning, but it’s essential. The good news? It’s not too complicated – and once it’s done, you’re free to enjoy all the fun stuff!
Here’s a checklist to help you get started:
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Birth Certificates: Both you and your partner need to provide original and certified true copies of your birth certificates from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). For foreign nationals, you’ll need to present your birth certificate from your home country, but make sure it’s authenticated
.
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Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR): This little piece of paper proves that neither of you is married (or at least that you’re not still legally married). You can request this from the PSA. Be sure to get both the original and a photocopy
.
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Valid Government-Issued ID: Whether it’s a passport, driver’s license, or any government-issued ID, bring something that proves your identity. This is a must!
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Barangay Certificate: You’ll need to show proof of residency, so be sure to grab a Barangay certificate. This proves that you or your partner have been living in your current location for at least 6 months
.
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Pre-Marriage Counseling Certificate: Yes, the mandatory pre-marriage seminar! In Cebu, it’s required before applying for a marriage license. You can schedule this at your local health office or city hall
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For foreign couples: If one of you is not a Filipino citizen, you’ll also need a Certificate of Legal Capacity to Marry from your embassy in the Philippines. This document confirms that you’re legally allowed to marry in the country
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Step 2: Submit Your Application for a Marriage License – It’s Paperwork Time!
Once you’ve gathered your documents, it’s time to head to the Local Civil Registrar (LCR) in the city or municipality where you or your partner live. Here’s where you’ll submit all the paperwork and fill out the marriage license application form. Don’t worry – the LCR staff is there to guide you through the process
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Step 3: Wait for the Marriage License – It’s Not Too Long!
Now comes the waiting game. The marriage license takes 10 days to process, so be sure to plan ahead. But don’t worry – the license is valid for 120 days, giving you plenty of time to set your wedding date
. Use that time to finalize your wedding details, pick the perfect venue, and get ready for the big day!
Step 4: Book Your Wedding – Now We’re Getting to the Good Part!
With your marriage license in hand, it’s time to choose your venue and get your wedding planning on track. Cebu has an abundance of beautiful wedding venues to choose from, so whether you want a chic beach wedding, a traditional church ceremony, or something a little more unconventional, you’re spoiled for choice.
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Beach Weddings on Mactan Island: If you’ve ever dreamed of saying your vows on a sandy beach with turquoise waters in the background, Mactan Island is your go-to spot. Venues like Shangri-La Mactan and Crimson Resort offer stunning beachfront settings for an unforgettable ceremony
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Church Weddings: If you’re envisioning a traditional church ceremony, look no further than Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral or San Sebastian Church – both of which boast beautiful architecture and a rich historical background
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Garden Weddings: For those who prefer lush greenery, consider a garden venue like The Mango Farm, where you can celebrate in a tranquil natural setting
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Just make sure you check with your venue to confirm that they require the marriage license before booking your date.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Dream Wedding in Cebu!
The big day has arrived – and it’s time to celebrate! Cebu offers the perfect backdrop for any wedding style, whether you’re hosting an intimate ceremony with just close family or an elaborate celebration with all your loved ones. And no matter where you choose to get married, rest assured that your memories will be beautifully captured in a place that’s as stunning as your love story.
Extra Tips for Foreign Couples
For couples from abroad, navigating the legalities of getting married in the Philippines can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite manageable with a little planning. As mentioned, you’ll need to secure the Legal Capacity to Marry certificate from your embassy. Be sure to plan ahead to avoid any last-minute surprises – and double-check all your documents before submitting them. It’s always better to be over-prepared than scrambling at the last minute.
Also, be aware that some documents, such as divorce decrees or death certificates, may need to be translated into English or Filipino. Always check with your embassy or the local registrar for specific requirements
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Your Wedding Photographer: Capturing Every Beautiful Moment
A wedding in Cebu deserves a photographer who understands the magic of the island and the significance of your special day. At Your Happy Moments, I specialize in capturing the essence of destination weddings. From the candid moments during the ceremony to the joyful celebrations at your reception, my approach is all about creating memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a photographer who will bring creativity, warmth, and artistry to your wedding photos, check out my portfolio here for inspiration. Ready to make your wedding photos unforgettable? Take a look at my photo packages here. If you’re ready to chat or book a consultation, I’d love to hear from you – just visit my contact page here.
Let’s turn your dream wedding into a beautiful story that you can treasure forever.
