Philippines: Marriage Encounter Foundation Strengthens Family Bonds at 2026 National Gathering

Members of the Marriage Encounter Foundation of the Philippines (MEFP) gathered at the Makati Sports Club in Makati City, part of Metro Manila, for their 2026 Annual Meeting and General Assembly, hosted by the Central Luzon Cluster.

Centered on the theme, “Love Beyond Boundaries: Rekindling Commitments, Renewing Faith,” the gathering brought together married couples and families from various regions of the Philippines for a celebration of unity, fellowship, and spiritual renewal.

The Marriage Encounter Foundation of the Philippines is a Catholic lay movement dedicated to strengthening Christian marriage and family life through faith formation, dialogue, and community-building programs.

The event was led by MEFP President Couple Atty. Jun and Loida Virtudazo, who welcomed participants and encouraged members to continue nurturing strong family relationships while living out their mission of service within the Church and society.

A highlight of the assembly was the celebration of the Eucharist presided over by Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of the Diocese of San Carlos, located in Negros Occidental Province in the central Philippines. Bishop Alminaza, who also serves as president of Caritas Philippines, concelebrated the Mass with Fr. Cris Dela Rosa.

In his homily, Bishop Alminaza underscored the vital role of families as witnesses of faith, hope, and love in a rapidly changing world. He encouraged married couples to remain steadfast in their commitment to God, one another, and the communities they serve.

The gathering provided participants with opportunities for prayer, reflection, and fellowship, helping them renew their commitment to the Marriage Encounter mission while strengthening bonds with fellow families from different clusters across the country.

Adding a festive atmosphere to the event was the much-anticipated “MEFP Got Talent” program, where participants showcased their God-given talents through music, dance, and other creative performances. The activity highlighted the diversity, creativity, and enthusiasm of MEFP members while fostering camaraderie among the various regional clusters.

Organizers expressed gratitude to Chair Couple Emeritus Robert and Tinette Aventajado, members of the Board of Trustees, cluster heads, servants, volunteers, and numerous supporters whose efforts contributed to the success of the national gathering.

As the assembly concluded, participants returned to their communities with renewed faith, strengthened marital commitments, and a deeper sense of unity. Inspired by the gathering’s theme, they pledged to continue witnessing God’s love beyond boundaries through family life, service, and evangelization.