In the Philippines, weddings reflect the strong traditions of family (and extended family) and symbolism. Thus, beyond the usual wedding party, a Filipino wedding involves people who are also significant in the couple's life: The Sponsors.  These are women and men whom the couple have chosen to involve in their ceremony because of their affinity or friendship with them -- typically relatives or close friends. They are sponsors of the couple attesting to their readiness for marriage and freedom to marry.  Their participation is symbolic of the wisdom & support they shall offer the new couple.

 

At this wedding there will be three sets of Sponsors:

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• The Veil Sponsors - those who will place a white veil over the shoulders of the grooms to symbolize their union and their being "clothed as one" in unity.  It represents a wish for good health and protection during their married life. 

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• The Cord Sponsors - those who will place a knotted infinity cord over the grooms, to symbolize their everlasting love and lifelong bond; that indeed they are no longer two, but one in their new life as a couple. 

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• The Candle Sponsors - those who will light two individual candles on behalf of the grooms.  These candles represent the light that the couple will need to guide them throughout the rest of their married life. The candles also express the silent promise that the couple will continue to provide light and warmth to each other throughout their life together.  The grooms will then take the flames from these candles and combine them to a singular light on a unity candle as a symbol of a new family that has been formed, as well as the blending of all the love, traditions and experiences the couple have each shared with their individual families and friends. This unity candle also symbolizes the light of the Universe that has brought the couple together and shall remain shining upon them throughout their marriage.