The Boardwalk

Wedding Ceremony

The Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu, Philippines

Punta Engaño Rd, Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu City, 6015 Cebu, Philippines

Our Wedding

In the heart of New York City, a chance encounter (or set up) between two Filipinos, each with a vastly different story, unfolds into a tale of discovery, connection and love. Natasha recently moved to NYC a little over a year before from Macau, working as an esthetician and hair and makeup artist, when fate—and a little matchmaking—stepped in.&nbsp;While attending a beauty event in the city, she unexpectedly ran into a few of her regular clients—Jovencio’s aunt, cousin, and niece. These lovely ladies, thrilled to learn Natasha was single, immediately switched into matchmaking mode. They excitedly told her about their relative, Jovencio—a NYC born, fun-loving, adventurous guy with a passion for the outdoors. . . .and his jeep. Oh, and did we mention, "He’s also an architect bachelor living in the city" (talk about a catch!) Without skipping a beat, they shared Natasha’s photo with Jovencio, hoping to spark some magic. For Natasha, it felt like a total blind date—she had no idea what Jovencio looked like! At first, she wasn’t too eager to jump back into dating and being single for over 5 years, but with a little nudge from the family, she figured, “Why not?” If it worked out, great! And if not, well, no harm done. Turns out, they didn’t waste any time. After a few quick text exchanges, they set a date. A few days later, they met for the first time at “Somewhere Nowhere,” a rooftop lounge in Chelsea, NYC. Natasha arrived low-key—no makeup, no expectations, just ready to see where the night would go. Jovencio, however, showed up well dressed, determined to make a good first impression. And boy, did he deliver! What Natasha expected to be just another casual date turned into a night of laughter and effortless conversation. Jovencio’s fun personality and genuine charm won her over in no time. Soon enough, they were seeing each other several times a week, and it wasn’t long before both of them realized they’d found something truly special. The Day of the Final Yes Determined to finally win her heart, Jovencio planned the perfect date night—this would be the day Natasha would officially say yes to being his girlfriend. But in a crazy twist, Natasha tested positive for COVID that morning! Most people would have called it off, but not Jovencio. “COVID or not, we’re still going out!” he insisted, thinking, This is the day I’m asking her to be my girlfriend. And so, with her positive COVID test and all, the date was still on! Two positives happened that night—Natasha had COVID… and she finally said YES to Jovencio’s third sweet ask! They celebrated over dinner at Mermaid Oyster Bar in West Village. The food was absolutely delicious—Well, at least that’s what Jovencio said—poor Natasha couldn’t taste a thing! But even without her taste buds, it was a night they’d never forget. With her “Yes,” they kicked off the start of a wonderful journey. Fun fact: Before officially becoming a couple, it took Jovencio three tries to ask Natasha to be his girlfriend. Natasha, being Filipina, believed in the tradition of courtship—a period where a man proves his sincerity and dedication before winning a woman's heart. She finally said yes on his third heartfelt ask!

Two Filipinos from Two different worlds find love

Our Story

February 24, 2024 

Jovencio and Natasha had been discussing marriage for some time, both knowing they were ready to take that next step together. On a beautiful Saturday evening, Jovencio had something extraordinary planned. Natasha, after a long day at work, believed they were simply attending an event hosted by one of his friends at the Renaissance Hotel in Chelsea. What she didn’t know was that Jovencio had spent the entire day preparing for this moment. He had been running around, organizing the venue, and adorning it with four dozen stunning red roses. He even arranged for a photographer to capture the magic of the evening. As the night unfolded, they arrived at “Somewhere Nowhere,” the very spot where they had shared their first date. The evening was magical—a full moon, clear skies, and the breathtaking New York City skyline as their backdrop. Under the glow of the moon, Jovencio got down on one knee and asked for Natasha’s hand in marriage.&nbsp; But the surprises didn’t end there. After Natasha said yes, Jovencio whisked her away to another surprise to their favorite restaurant, “The Mermaid Oyster Bar.” This was particularly special, as it was the same place where they had celebrated their official relationship—the night Natasha had tested positive for COVID and couldn’t taste a single bite of the delicious food. As they arrived, Natasha was taken aback to find close friends and family waiting to celebrate their engagement! The night continued at the Chelsea Hotel, where more loved ones joined them, making it a night full of joy, love, and unforgettable surprises.

The Engagement 

NYC Civil Wedding

On March 28, 2024, at New York City Hall, Jovencio and Natasha exchanged their vows in a heartfelt civil ceremony. An intimate celebration surrounded by their beloved family members, the day was filled with laughter, joy, and tears of happiness, marking the start of their beautiful journey together. Now, they are excited to celebrate their love with family and friends in the Philippines, planning a special wedding ceremony and festivities with their closest loved ones. They look forward to creating unforgettable memories as they embark on this new chapter of their lives, sharing this special moment with all the people they cherish most.

OUR ADVENTURES TOGETHER

Jovencio and Natasha are both adventurous spirits who love to embrace every activity under the sun! They enjoy exploring cultural food festivals—especially when it comes to indulging in Filipino cuisine, of course. Whether it’s hiking through scenic trails or discovering beautiful natural springs, they thrive on being outdoors and soaking up the beauty of nature. On weekends, you’ll often find them cruising on boats, hopping from town to town in a fun tradition they call “Pashal!” They also make it a point to hit the gym together, with Jovencio being the ultimate gym buddy. No matter the occasion, they love dressing up and attending festive events, celebrating holidays and special moments with flair. Together, they strive to stay active and make the most of every adventure life has to offer!

Gallery

Wedding Festivities

✨ April 11, Friday – A Toast to Love: Welcome Night7:00–10:00 PM | Poolside BarAttire: White Resort Wear Kick off the wedding festivities with a welcome toast at the Poolside Bar! It’s the perfect way to meet, mingle, and start the celebration. ✨ April 12, Saturday – The Wedding Day4:00 PM – Midnight | Grand Ballroom 1 The day we’ve all been waiting for! Let’s sing, cry, laugh, drink, and dance the night away as we celebrate love and new beginnings. ✨ April 13, Sunday – Island Excursion or Poolside Relaxation Join us for an island-hopping adventure in Mactan Island from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM! If you’re up for an adventure, let us know. We’ve arranged transportation to and from our resort, Dusit Thani, Mactan. Enjoy delicious Filipino food, fresh fruits, and the breathtaking Philippine sunset aboard a traditional bangka (Filipino boat). Prefer a more laid-back day? Feel free to unwind and enjoy the resort’s amenities at your own pace. No pressure at all—but please let us know if you’ll be joining the island tour! ✨ April 14, Monday – Siargao Post-Wedding Adventure (Optional) Join us as we fly to Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines! We’ll be staying at Siargao Island Villas and would love to explore this breathtaking island with you. This trip is completely optional and at your own expense.

Wedding Events

Q + A

We are so excited to celebrate our special day with you! Your presence means the world to us, and we can’t wait to create unforgettable memories together. To help you prepare for the event, we’ve put together a guide for the wedding guest attire. We want everyone to feel comfortable, confident, and stylish while complementing the overall theme of our celebration. Our wedding will be a reflection of our love story—elegant yet heartfelt—and we’d love for your attire to match the mood of the occasion. Please take a moment to review the dress code, as it will help ensure a cohesive and beautiful atmosphere. If you have any questions about what to wear, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help and can’t wait to see you looking your best on this very special day! Let’s make this a day to remember together!

Attire

We'll provide the booking codes and more information as we get closer to the date, so stay tuned!

Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu

Here’s a brief guide on traveling from the USA to Mactan, Cebu: 1. Book a flight: There are no direct flights from the USA to Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), so you’ll need to book a connecting flight. Major airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, and Korean Air offer connecting routes via cities like Manila, Hong Kong, Singapore, or Seoul. 2. Connecting airports: Common layover airports include:&nbsp;&nbsp;-Manila (Ninoy Aquino International Airport - MNL): Philippine Airlines offers direct flights from major US cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York) to Manila. From Manila, you can take a domestic flight to Cebu (approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes).&nbsp;&nbsp;- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG): Cathay Pacific connects US cities to Cebu via Hong Kong.&nbsp;&nbsp;- Incheon International Airport (ICN): Korean Air offers connections via Seoul.&nbsp;&nbsp;- Singapore Changi Airport (SIN): Singapore Airlines has routes connecting through Singapore to Cebu. 3. Arriving in Mactan-Cebu: Once you arrive at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), you’re just a short drive away from the resort. You can take a taxi or we can help you arrange for resort transportation. It’s a good idea to book your flights in advance to get the best connections and rates.

USA to PHILIPPINES

Important Information for International Guests Traveling to the Philippines

The Philippine government requires all international travelers to complete a pre-arrival online registration 48 hours before their flight. This is mandatory and ensures a smooth entry process upon arrival. The system, called&nbsp;eTravel, allows travelers to provide necessary health and travel information. It is used for border control, health monitoring, and economic data analysis by the Philippine government. You can complete the online form through the official website:https://etravel.gov.ph/ We recommend filling out the form as early as possible within the required timeframe to avoid any inconvenience. Safe travels!

Here’s a travel guide from Manila to Mactan, Cebu: 1. Flight from Manila to Cebu:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Manila to Mactan, Cebu, is by air. Several airlines operate daily flights, including:&nbsp;&nbsp;- Philippine Airlines (PAL)&nbsp;&nbsp;- Cebu Pacific&nbsp;&nbsp;- AirAsia &nbsp;&nbsp;The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. You can book your flight online via the airlines' websites or through travel booking platforms. Flights are frequent, so you should be able to find one that suits your schedule. 2. Departure from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA):&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Most domestic flights from Manila to Cebu depart from NAIA Terminal 2 or 3. Make sure to check your terminal and arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to account for traffic and check-in procedures. 3. Arrival at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB):&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Once you land at Mactan-Cebu International Airport, you’ll be on Mactan Island, where many of Cebu’s resorts, including Dusit Thani Mactan, are located. 4. Transportation to your hotel or resort:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;- Taxi or Grab: You can easily take a taxi or book a Grab (similar to Uber) from the airport. The ride to most Mactan Island resorts, including Dusit Thani, takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Traveling from Manila to Mactan-Cebu is straightforward, and domestic flights are generally affordable and easy to book.

Manila to Mactan Cebu

Travel

While you're in the stunning archipelago of 7, 641 islands, why not dive into the vibrant beauty and rich culture of the Philippines? There's so much to explore and experience! From breathtaking beaches to historic landmarks, Here are some must see destinations and adventures you won't want to miss while you're here! 1. Explore Cebu’s Rich Culture and History<a href="https://guidetothephilippines.ph/destinations-and-attractions/magellan-s-cross" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Magellan’s Cross:&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Located in Cebu City, it's a short taxi or Grab ride from most hotels in Cebu. <a href="https://santoninodecebubasilica.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Basilica Minore del Santo Niño:&nbsp;</a>Adjacent to Magellan’s Cross, easily reachable by taxi or Grab. 2. Island Hopping and Beaches in Cebu<a href="https://www.mactanislandhopping.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mactan Island:&nbsp;</a>Already on Mactan Island (where the airport is located), most resorts offer direct access to beaches. You can book island-hopping tours from your hotel. <a href="https://kawasanfalls.net" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kawasan Falls:&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;About a 3-hour drive from Cebu City. You can rent a car, hire a private driver, or join a tour group for a day trip to the falls. <a href="https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/bantayan-island-travel-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bantayan Island:&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;Take a 3-4 hour bus ride from Cebu City to Hagnaya Port, followed by a ferry to Bantayan Island. 3. Day Trips from Cebu<a href="https://www.islandtrektours.com/oslob-whale-shark-watching-day-tour/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Oslob Whale Shark Watching:&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Oslob is a 3-4 hour drive from Cebu City. You can book a private car, join a guided tour, or take a bus from Cebu South Bus Terminal. <a href="https://www.weseektravel.com/moalboal-sardine-run-panagsama-beach/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Moalboal Sardine Run:</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Moalboal is about 2.5 hours by car from Cebu City. You can rent a private car or book a day tour that includes transportation. <a href="https://www.oslobwhalesharks.com/destinations/sumilon-island/?srsltid=AfmBOor5LGh7pMC-SG11FCztMJ7o24mipHSvc-MVDAsGRzwjH7QhB4yR" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sumilon Island:&nbsp;</a>After reaching Oslob, you can take a short boat ride to Sumilon Island. Many tours from Oslob include a visit to the island. 4. Discover More of the Philippines<a href="https://philippines.travel/destinations/bohol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bohol:&nbsp;</a>Take a 2-hour ferry ride from Cebu City to Tagbilaran Port in Bohol. Ferries operate regularly and can be booked in advance. <a href="https://theworldtravelguy.com/coron-vs-el-nido-which-is-better-all-the-differences-explained/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Palawan (El Nido or Coron):&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;How to get there: Fly from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Puerto Princesa (for El Nido) or direct flights to Coron’s Busuanga Airport. From Puerto Princesa, take a 5-6 hour van ride to El Nido. <a href="https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/boracay-travel-guide" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Boracay:&nbsp;</a>How to get there: Fly from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Caticlan (the nearest airport to Boracay). From Caticlan Airport, take a short boat ride to Boracay Island. 5. Adventure in the Philippines<a href="https://guidetothephilippines.ph/articles/ultimate-guides/mayon-volcano-guide-albay-bicol" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mount Mayon (Albay, Bicol):&nbsp;</a>How to get there: Fly from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Legazpi City in Bicol. From there, you can take a taxi to view the volcano or join a tour. 6. Immerse in Filipino Culture<a href="https://www.zoytotheworld.com/blog/cebu-food-trip-house-of-lechon" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cebu Lechon:&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Lechon spots are spread across Cebu City. Some popular places are Rico’s Lechon or House of Lechon, easily accessible by taxi or Grab. <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g298460-Activities-c26-Cebu_City_Cebu_Island_Visayas.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Local Markets:&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Visit Carbon Market in Cebu City, easily accessible by taxi or Grab. For fresh seafood, head to Pasil Fish Market. These destinations, paired with easy-to-follow travel routes, will help you experience the best of the Philippines!

Best of Philippines!

Things to Do

You're Invited!

Registry

We’re so excited to continue the celebration after our wedding by exploring the breathtaking Siargao Island from April 14–18, 2025, and we’d love for you to join us! Here’s the plan:•	We’ll be flying from Cebu to Siargao Airport via Cebu Pacific Airlines Flight DG6855 11:35AM Monday, April 14, 2025.•	Our stay will be at the beautiful Siargao Island Villas, where we’ve arranged special rates for our guests. Simply mention that you’re part of Mr. &amp; Mrs. Jovencio Mercado’s party when booking. For a faster response, please reach out to "Siargao Island Villas" directly through their Facebook Messenger. This trip is entirely optional and at your own expense, but we’d love to have you join us in exploring one of the Philippines’ most stunning islands. Siargao is famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes—a true tropical paradise! Whether it’s island hopping, surfing, or simply relaxing by the beach, this getaway will be filled with unforgettable memories. If you’re interested, we recommend booking your flights and accommodations soon as spots may fill up quickly. We can’t wait to celebrate and unwind together! Let us know if you have any questions.

Natasha & Jovencio

Natasha & Jovencio

Registry