Query: Can a vice mayor or a lawyer officiate a wedding in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, the authority to solemnize marriages is clearly defined under the Family Code. Not everyone has the legal authority to officiate a marriage; it is primarily designated to specific officials and religious authorities.

Vice Mayors: According to the Family Code, local chief executives such as mayors are specifically granted the authority to solemnize marriages within their jurisdiction. This authority also extends to vice mayors when they are acting as officers-in-charge during the absence of the mayor. Therefore, a vice mayor can legally officiate a wedding in the absence of the mayor, within the geographical limits of their authority.
Lawyers: Unlike mayors and vice mayors, lawyers do not have general legal authority to solemnize marriages unless they also hold a position that includes this right, such as being a judge or a mayor. Simply having a law degree or being a practicing attorney does not confer the power to conduct marriage ceremonies under Philippine law.

For couples planning their wedding, it's crucial to ensure that the person officiating their marriage is legally authorized to do so to avoid any validity issues with their marriage. This involves verifying that the official fits into one of the categories recognized by the Family Code, which includes judges, priests, ministers, rabbis, imams, or any other person authorized by their church or religious sect, and in certain cases, ship captains or airplane chiefs in specific scenarios.

Choosing an authorized officiant not only ensures the legality of the marriage but also secures the rights and recognitions that come with a legally binding marriage. If there is any doubt about whether a specific individual is authorized to officiate a marriage, it is advisable to consult the local civil registrar or legal counsel to confirm their eligibility before proceeding with the wedding plans.