If You Liked It Then You Shoulda Put A Ring On It

Since Ron decided to propose to my dad first, every thing became a blur.

We decided to have a family get-to-know-break-the-ice dinner before the actual pamamanhikan in the province.

The dinner was scheduled on 27 January 2012 at Casa Roces, Malacanang. Ron and I was stuck in traffic while both our families were also stuck... to converse with each other. For a first meeting, I would say it was pretty smooth sans my brother's melodramatic scene, express sentiment and love.

A month after 25 February 2012, Ron and his family went to our hometown, Bucal 2 Maragondon, Cavite. I informed everyone to be there. By everyone, means more than 60 immediate family members and about 30 Municipal employees. Good thing, Ron's family friend Avengoza Catering is prepared. Avengoza started setting up the place at 10am with Lechon Cebu and Turkey for carving, about 4 different viands, paella and some desserts.

By noon, everyone arrived and ate. (Side comment: They liked the food)

Thereafter, Ron whispered, I need to tell them something. I said you can just say it now. I felt that since we are in an open space, he might be needing a microphone for his announcement :) So I told everyone that we should go to the A/C room, more commonly referred to as our "war room" come elections season. By 'everyone' includes, my dad's 6 brothers&sisters including their children and my dad's uncle/aunts.

In the A/C room, I expected a one liner speech from Ron, like "I'm formally asking for the hand of Mariz. Period.". But no. He began telling everyone our love story, about how he came up with his decision to marry me, about assuring everyone how he feels about me and about how as grown up individuals we are deciding to tie knot.

I was moved.

Most of my family members were teary eyed as well.

Just like our Christmas parties, everyone gave speeches. I was beginning to wonder if there's a dance number per family too ;)

From the oldest in my dad's side (Uncle Pat) to the youngest (Ninong Jojo), they gave speeches of acceptance and support for our union. They welcomed Ron in the family. They said they have known Ron in most occasions and he has really helped in the campaign and 2010 election. My dad, mom and bro gave speeches as well. Ron's family, Dondee, Ate, Mom and Dad also gave theirs. They welcomed me in Reyes family; that they have known me ever since; they thanked the acceptance of the Andaman family and they expressed joy that I will be part of their family. Everyone was crying like madness! Tears of joy, I hope.

Until now, I still feel really proud.

Pamamanhikan is an old tradition. Its difficult to execute and is rare in this modern times. Usually, families just freakin' eat together with awkwardness all over.

In our case, I would say WE DID IT! With flair! ;)

From Lola Bes (Ron's grandmother)