A Muslim wedding ceremony in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat has drawn national attention after the groom discovered that the person he married was biologically male, sparking an investigation into alleged fraud and deception.
According to Philippine News, the ceremony took place on May 16 in Barangay Malisbong, involving a 20-year-old man and an individual from the LGBTQ community who had reportedly presented as a woman. Local authorities confirmed the matter has been endorsed to the police for investigation, with officials looking into possible complaints involving deception and fraud. The individual is currently in police custody.
Online accounts identifying the parties as “Sofia” and “Michael” claim the two first connected through the popular mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and maintained a relationship for months before the marriage. Reports claim the groom learned of his partner’s biological identity roughly two months into the relationship but that the couple stayed together for approximately eight months before proceeding with the wedding under Islamic customs. Authorities have not publicly confirmed the identities of those involved and cautioned that many details circulating on social media remain unverified.
Palimbang Vice Mayor Joenemi Kapina said the incident drew strong reactions from the community, particularly among Muslim residents for whom marriage is a sacred religious tradition. Community elders and religious leaders also expressed concern over the case’s implications.
The individual at the center of the controversy has since issued a public apology, while the groom has not released any official statement. The municipal government has coordinated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to provide assistance to those affected while the investigation continues.
Authorities reminded the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and warned against hateful or offensive remarks directed at the LGBTQ community while the case remains under investigation.
