They say love finds you when you least expect it. For John Albert and Niña Mariz, it started with a burger… and a little help crossing the street.

They’ve known each other since their first year in college — classmates navigating academic stress, org activities, and the occasional group gala. At first, they weren’t particularly close. But one ordinary day, habang nag-aantayan sa Mayapa with their classmates, nagutom sila. They spotted a Minute Burger stall with a “Buy 1 Take 1” promo. Most of their classmates had already bought theirs, but since Niña couldn’t finish two burgers at that time, that’s when Albert casually said, “Tig-isa na lang tayo.” (Yes, smooth si kuya.)

The twist? The burger stall was across the street — and Niña wasn’t exactly confident about crossing. So, with no other choice, she held Albert’s arm. That simple gesture, in the middle of the street, somehow changed everything. Pagbalik nila, their classmates started teasing them: “Bagay kayo!” And maybe... they were right.

Another twist! Hinanap ni Niña yung sukli niya and casually asked Albert about it. Pero si kuya? Deadma. Di nagsabi ng totoo — kinupit na pala ang sukli. At that time, Niña thought it was just loose change that Albert sneakily took… yun pala, pati puso niya, ninakaw na rin.

Their first "date" was a little secret — sa perya sa The Plaza. Since Niña wasn’t allowed to have a boyfriend yet, they had to be lowkey. And though it seemed like a simple date, it turned out to be unforgettable. Niña invited Albert to ride the Ferris wheel — not knowing he was actually terrified of heights. (But of course, he said yes anyway. Kailangan cool!)

Funny enough, si Niña pa ang nanlibre, dahil si Albert, medyo short ang budget that day. But it didn’t matter. That night, they shared their first real moment together — laughter, a little fear, holding hands, and something quietly growing between them.

Since then, they’ve built a story full of milestones, both big and small: From surviving exams and thesis to graduating together From sharing lunch boxes (kanin ni Albert, ulam ni Niña) to dining in restaurants they once only dreamed of From commuting and competing for a seat in a jam-packed jeep to owning a bike, a motor, and now… a car.

From late-night study sessions to career moves and future plans

Then came the biggest surprise yet. On January 12, 2025, Niña thought they were simply celebrating her parents’ anniversary. But in front of the majestic Monte Maria in Lobo, Batangas, and with her entire family present, Albert got down on one knee and asked the question that would change their lives forever.

And yes — she said yes.

Now, they’re stepping into a new chapter — one they’ve long prayed for, waited for, and dreamed of. And they can’t wait to celebrate this next season of love, laughter, and forever with the people who have supported them from the beginning.