A Catholic church wedding is the heart of the day for many Filipino families — and it comes with its own checklist on top of the civil marriage licence. Requirements vary slightly by parish and diocese, so confirm with your specific church early, but this is what most will ask for.
The core documents
- Recently issued baptismal and confirmation certificates for both — annotated "for marriage purposes".
- PSA birth certificates and your civil marriage licence.
- CENOMAR (Certificate of No Marriage Record).
- Canonical interview with the parish priest.
- Marriage banns posted in the home parishes of both partners.
- Certificate of permission or transfer if you are marrying outside your home parish.
Pre-Cana and the pre-marriage seminars
Most parishes require a Pre-Cana seminar — a short marriage-preparation program — plus the civil pre-marriage counseling. Slots fill up, especially in peak months, so book yours as soon as you have a date.
How early to start
Begin 6–12 months out. Popular churches book their calendars far ahead, certificates take time to gather and annotate, and the seminars run on their own schedule. Starting early turns a stressful checklist into a calm one.
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