(UPDATE) TEN rider-couples, from delivery drivers to motorcycle enthusiasts, have tied the knot in Marikina City. Mayor Maan Teodoro officiated Thursday’s mass wedding, comparing marriage to a long motorcycle journey with smooth stretches and inevitable bumps, and stressing the importance of trust, patience, and partnership. The ceremony was held on Thursday at the historic Kapitan Moy Plaza in Barangay Sta. Elena, drawing families, friends, and city officials who witnessed couples formally seal their commitment just days before Valentine’s Day. For some couples present, the event offered an opportunity to solemnize their union without the usual wedding expenses, allowing them to make their relationship official under civil law. In her message, Teodoro elaborated on her motorcycle analogy, saying marriage is not always a smooth ride. “Marriage is like a long motorcycle trip. Not every day is a flat road. There are days when the ride is smooth, joyful, and light. But there are also days with potholes, traffic, rain, and times when you have to fix something in the middle of the journey,” she said. She emphasized that a lasting marriage requires both partners to navigate challenges together. “In this journey, it is not enough that only one knows how to drive. You need to trust each other. When there is a challenge, do not let go immediately. Do not race ahead or leave one another — you should be together,” she added. The mayor further urged the newlyweds to remain steadfast during difficult moments. “Do not leave each other on the side of the road. Do not let go of their hand. Accompany them until the wounds heal,” she said. “It is not the speed that will bring you to forever, but perseverance, forgiveness, and choosing each other every day.” As part of the ceremony, the city government gave monetary gifts to the couples to help them begin their married life together. Under the Local Government Code of 1991, city mayors are authorized to solemnize marriages within their jurisdiction as part of their official functions.