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From friendzone to forever: Filipino couple’s romance story blossoms in Dubai after 10 years of friendship

Many Filipinos believe that a relationship that’s built on friendship is one that is destined to last. Starting out as friends means knowing each other enough to know how you can both cultivate your relationship into a lifetime partnership.
Such is the case for Criz and Paul Aggarao, a Filipino couple who met at a Church youth event during their teenage years. The two is the perfect example of how friendship can blossom into a mature relationship.
Back when they were young, Paul remembers how Criz was the apple of the eye of many teenage boys, a reason he preferred to just watch her from afar.
“All the boys in our youth church were surrounding her, which at the time, was a turn-off for me. It wasn’t her fault of course, but I just don’t like adding to the attention she was already getting from the other guys. I’ll just be the guy behind the stage. But when I got to meet her, she was very friendly. She had a bright charm,” said Paul.
IMG 20170924 060258 128 CrizPy
After they met, they became very good friends. Criz—who’s a year younger than Paul—shares that when they were in high school, she used to think of him as more of a ‘big brother’ figure.
“In high school I always thought of him as a brother. I used to call him “bro” because he watched over me and my sisters when we were in Philippines. He was a very good friend,” said Criz.
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Growing together in love
The friendship of Criz and Paul strengthened over the years. However, after college, they took their friendship to the next level.
“When I became a young professional, I started seeing him in a different light. I remembered how he treated all women with kindness and brotherly love. He was such a gentleman. Suddenly, I was attracted to him,” said Criz.
CrizPy IcelandSnow
Paul said that apart from her undeniable beauty, it was Criz’ positive outlook and passion in life that made him fall in love with her.
“It’s obvious she’s so pretty. I can look at her all day every day. But looks aside, I love how she is so driven and spirited. She was so passionate with her dancing and her career which was interior design. She’s just so beautiful inside and out,” he said.
DSC 6181 CrizPy Yotel NY FullHD
UAE’s ‘Garden of Eden’
Criz and Paul credit their love story to the UAE, a country they consider their second home. Criz said that they have been together for such a long time that they both actually saw the UAE flourish.
“We’ve always felt UAE is our home because both of us grew up here with our families. I am glad that both of us feel the same way about staying in Dubai. I feel we both have the same direction,” said Criz.
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“Dubai was our Garden of Eden. Since we both grew up here, we knew the places to date, eat and hang out. Back then, we loved spending time in the old DFC where there was a love boat that people can ride in for free. We also dated at romantic restaurants facing the creek. The UAE is a very romantic place because there are lots of dating spots,” Paul added.
Team CrizPy
Finding ‘the one’ in each other’s arms
After nine wonderful years of marriage Criz and Paul—who call their tandem ‘CrizPy’—are now blessed with two kids, enjoying their life with their growing family.
“I always look back and remember our time together, and always think of how a true gentleman he is, how hardworking and how much he loved God,” said Criz.
Paul, on the other hand, shares that he is glad Criz was the ‘future wife’ he always prayed for when he was in college.
IMG 5794 CrizPy Christmas 2019
“When I was in college, I was taught by my leaders and mentors to pray for my “future wife” in general. No names, no manipulation towards anyone. I just prayed to find someone I will spend the rest of my life with. So, I was already building positivity towards “the one.” I am so glad it was Criz,” he said.
“God honors our hopes and aspirations. And I aspired to marry Criz. And that was one of the best decisions and pursuits I have ever made in my life,” he added.
Criz also said that friendship is indeed one of the best foundations for a long-lasting relationship .
“Just focus on what you want to achieve for yourself and keep building relationships with other people. Friendship is the best foundation for marriage,” she said.

Staff Report

The Filipino Times is the chronicler of stories for, of and by Filipinos all over the world, reaching more than 236 countries in readership. Any interesting story to share? Email us at [email protected]

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