MANILA, Philippines – “My beloved President sir, humihiling po ako ng tatlong minuto lang po sa ngalan ng pag-ibig, sir.”

(My beloved President sir, I am asking for 3 minutes in the name of love, sir.)

This was how Police Senior Inspector Arvin Jusmillo began his marriage proposal to his girlfriend, a security aide of President Rodrigo Duterte, in front of the President himself.

Carrying a bouquet of red roses, Jusmillo then began his heartfelt message to Police Senior Inspector Romea Alnieza Kinang, who was on stage with Duterte.

Duterte had just finished his speech in front of Philippine National Police Region 13 personnel on Thursday, October 6, in Butuan City.

The President, Special Assistant to the President Bong Go, and police officials watched on as Jusmillo explained that he and Kinang have been together for 5 years.

They were supposed to get married this month, but fought and ended up canceling their plans. Jusmillo, however, said the chain of events led to the rare opportunity of him being able to propose to Kinang in front of Duterte himself, known to have a soft spot for police.

“Kaya hinugot ko ang lakas ng loob sa katawan ko para gawin ito (That’s why I summoned all my courage to do this),” said Jusmillo, in front of not only Duterte but his fellow cops and the rolling cameras of the media.

Kinang accepted Jusmillo’s flowers and ring. The usually poker-faced Go was smiling at the scene.

Duterte then gamely posed with the couple for a photo. – Rappler.com