You Are Cordially Invited!

Some stories are written not by chance, but by God’s perfect timing. For Mc Xell and Rose, it was a love born at sea, strengthened by prayers, and destined to last a lifetime. Rose and Mc Xell first met while both were working as utility crew for the same seafaring company. At that time, Rose didn’t recognize him right away because she was already a well-known personality in the "Marino PH" community. She had gone viral for a post about being an officer and a seawoman, boldly sharing her motto: “Bahala’g walay uyab basta lisensyado.” Luckily, a mutual friend—who was also her friend and is gay—encouraged Mc Xell to approach her, which finally led to Rose recognizing him. Not long after, Rose was assigned to a different vessel. Fast forward, fate brought them back together on the same ship. Rose was still popular—young, beautiful, sexy, and smart—so it was no surprise that many crew and officers tried to court her. But she turned them all down, choosing not to entertain relationships while on board. Even the captain and chief engineer would tease the two of them. Mc Xell was single, and Rose had been happily single for three years. When Mc Xell learned that Rose was about to disembark, he decided it was the right time to make his move. He didn’t want to confess his feelings on the ship, fearing rejection, so he waited until they were back on land. He started accompanying her whenever she had to go somewhere. At first, Rose didn’t seem to show any interest. But once she disembarked, he continued to pursue her. He courted her in person, and eventually, Rose gave him a chance. Even though she hadn’t officially said yes yet, Mc Xell immediately introduced her to his parents and relatives, showing his serious intentions. Months later, on January 5, 2021, Rose finally said YES and officially became his girlfriend. Mc Xell admired Rose deeply because she was willing to give up her dream of being a seafarer to start a family with him. He never asked her to stop sailing, but she chose to work in a land-based seafaring company so they could build a future together. It was a difficult decision for her, but one that made Mc Xell’s love for her grow even more. One special moment they both cherish was a conversation they had as a couple. Rose revealed that one day in Liloan, Cebu, she prayed in church for a boyfriend. Coincidentally, that very same day, Mc Xell prayed for Rose to say yes to him. That’s why the Liloan Church and the town itself became their “lucky charm.” Rose prayed there, and in Liloan, she also said YES. It’s no wonder they chose Liloan as the location for their prenup photoshoot. Who would have thought that their love would withstand years of long-distance, both working as seafarers? Even though they were often apart at sea, their trust, understanding, and mutual respect kept them strong. Those values helped their love grow, ultimately leading them here—toward marriage and forever. And the rest is the beginning of their happily ever after.