In the community of Huamuchitos, part of the communal lands of the rural area of Acapulco, Guerrero, a controversy arose regarding a matrimonial arrangement between two teenagers. The announcement of this union was made on social media and generated an intense debate about the legality of such celebrations in the context of the customs and usages of the region.
Celia and Gael, both only 13 years old, were the protagonists of this union which took place during a celebration advertised by a local photography and video agency called 'Producciones Beto'. The live broadcasts documenting the event were removed from the agency's Facebook page after receiving numerous complaints from users.
In response to the controversy, the Guerrero government took action in the community of Huamuchitos to raise awareness among the population about the rights of children and adolescents, as well as to provide guidance on the prevention of pregnancy among minors.
In the images circulated on social media, Gael and Celia can be seen holding hands while a group of adults finalizes the marriage agreement. During the event, chants of 'long live the couple!' could be heard as the pair of young people walked around greeting the guests.
Local media sought the opinion of the mayor of Acapulco, Abelina López Rodríguez, who stated that, according to the director of the civil registry, no formal marriage took place between the minors in the municipality. Although the celebration was based on local customs and usages, there was no official record of the union from the authorities.
