Argentinian Couples Recognized for 25 Years of Marriage

Santiago del Estero, Argentina – UPF-Argentina and the TRAEER Association co-hosted an event on June 5, 2025, at which seven couples who have been married for more than 25 years were recognized with the Family and Common Good award.  The event was held at the Parque Sur Oval in Santiago del Estero, known as the Mother of Cities, as it was the nation’s very first city.

The meeting was held on World Environment Day, and also in support of the Global Day of Families, which this year was themed Family-Oriented Policies for Sustainable Development.

Mr. Sergio Páez, director of environmental education at the TRAEER Association, and Ms. Constanza Gorostiaga served as MCs. Mr. Raúl Ferreyra, secretary general of the local ASURE Union, gave a welcoming address. This was followed by keynote speaker Mr. Miguel Werner, president of UPF-Argentina.

UPF-Argentina has held this program since 2009 to strengthen intergenerational bonds, recognize the work and experience of parents, and honor the family as a pillar of society, essential for community harmony and sustainable development. During the event, couples share their valuable life experiences and recall both pleasant and challenging moments, sometimes evoking laughter, sometimes tears.  

In addition to the couples’ recognition, an Ambassador for Peace certificate was presented to Mr. Sergio Páez, in recognition of his service to society and commitment to environmental protection. Mr. Páez served as a main promoter of this 17^th Family and Common Good program.

In his address, Mr. Páez explained that he learned from his grandparents to love and care for the environment. He stressed the value of close relationships with family, friends, and activists who share a common desire to build a healthy environment and a better quality of life for all. He considers warnings on environmental destruction “an opportunity to change our habits and customs, an opportunity to understand nature and learn to love and protect it.”

Mr. Páez and his wife Liliana have three children and two grandchildren, whom he teaches to understand and love nature with a sense of gratitude and responsibility, and to match caring with action.

This was a heartwarming meeting for all the honored couples, relatives and guests. Also joining the event were peace ambassadors from Santiago del Estero: Mr. Hugo Ramírez, a poet, writer and athlete; and Ms. Marilé García, member of the local group Red de Esperanza, with whom UPF has conducted environmental activities in the city.

By Miguel Werner, President, UPF-Argentina

June 5, 2025