In the heart of New York City, a chance encounter (or set up) between two Filipinos, each with a vastly different story, unfolds into a tale of discovery, connection and love.

Natasha recently moved to NYC a little over a year before from Macau, working as an esthetician and hair and makeup artist, when fate—and a little matchmaking—stepped in. While attending a beauty event in the city, she unexpectedly ran into a few of her regular clients—Jovencio’s aunt, cousin, and niece. These lovely ladies, thrilled to learn Natasha was single, immediately switched into matchmaking mode. They excitedly told her about their relative, Jovencio—a NYC born, fun-loving, adventurous guy with a passion for the outdoors. . . .and his jeep. Oh, and did we mention, "He’s also an architect bachelor living in the city" (talk about a catch!)

Without skipping a beat, they shared Natasha’s photo with Jovencio, hoping to spark some magic. For Natasha, it felt like a total blind date—she had no idea what Jovencio looked like! At first, she wasn’t too eager to jump back into dating and being single for over 5 years, but with a little nudge from the family, she figured, “Why not?” If it worked out, great! And if not, well, no harm done.

Turns out, they didn’t waste any time. After a few quick text exchanges, they set a date.

A few days later, they met for the first time at “Somewhere Nowhere,” a rooftop lounge in Chelsea, NYC. Natasha arrived low-key—no makeup, no expectations, just ready to see where the night would go. Jovencio, however, showed up well dressed, determined to make a good first impression.

And boy, did he deliver! What Natasha expected to be just another casual date turned into a night of laughter and effortless conversation. Jovencio’s fun personality and genuine charm won her over in no time. Soon enough, they were seeing each other several times a week, and it wasn’t long before both of them realized they’d found something truly special.

The Day of the Final Yes

Determined to finally win her heart, Jovencio planned the perfect date night—this would be the day Natasha would officially say yes to being his girlfriend. But in a crazy twist, Natasha tested positive for COVID that morning! Most people would have called it off, but not Jovencio. “COVID or not, we’re still going out!” he insisted, thinking, This is the day I’m asking her to be my girlfriend.

And so, with her positive COVID test and all, the date was still on! Two positives happened that night—Natasha had COVID… and she finally said YES to Jovencio’s third sweet ask! They celebrated over dinner at Mermaid Oyster Bar in West Village. The food was absolutely delicious—Well, at least that’s what Jovencio said—poor Natasha couldn’t taste a thing!

But even without her taste buds, it was a night they’d never forget. With her “Yes,” they kicked off the start of a wonderful journey.

Fun fact: Before officially becoming a couple, it took Jovencio three tries to ask Natasha to be his girlfriend. Natasha, being Filipina, believed in the tradition of courtship—a period where a man proves his sincerity and dedication before winning a woman's heart. She finally said yes on his third heartfelt ask!