Love Story Blooms at Cadiz’s Dinagsa Festival

Cadiz City’s Dinagsa Festival became the backdrop for a love story that captured the hearts of many.

Roland James Brown Jr., a 39-year-old U.S. Marine veteran and restaurant server at Disney Springs in Orlando, Florida, proposed to 20-year-old Christine Pacilan Guillero of Cadiz during the Dinagsa Festival 2025 in front of a massive crowd at the Grandstand on Sunday, Jan. 26.

The moment was filled with joy and celebration as Brown got down on one knee amid the festival’s lively atmosphere, marking the beginning of their shared journey.

“It didn’t take me long to know Christine was the one,” Brown said.

“She’s so caring and genuine. From the start, she introduced me to her family, and that really showed me how serious she was about us.”

Despite a 12-hour time difference, Brown and Guillero kept their relationship strong through daily calls and shared moments. After five months, Brown decided to visit Cadiz, timing his trip around the Dinagsa Festival—a celebration Christine had often spoken about.

“I didn’t know much about the festival at first, but I just wanted to see Christine,” Brown admitted.

However, the festival would soon play a much larger role in their love story.

A Proposal in the Making

Days before the festival, Christine’s father, Daniel Guillero, introduced Brown to Mai Escalante, brother of Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr., at a local food court.

That meeting became pivotal in making Brown’s proposal a reality.

Brown originally planned a quiet dinner proposal, but after experiencing the festival’s energy, he wanted to do something grander.

On the night before the festival’s main event, Brown saw Escalante on stage and asked him for a favor.

“I wanted to give Christine a moment she’d never forget,” Brown said.

Moved by Brown’s sincerity, Escalante immediately stepped in to help.

On Jan. 26, as the crowd gathered at the Grandstand, Brown stepped onto the stage.

With music playing and cheers growing louder, he knelt down and asked Christine to marry him.

The crowd erupted in applause as Christine said yes, turning the moment into an unforgettable scene shared by the entire city.

“I can’t thank Mai Escalante enough for making it all possible,” Brown said.

“His kindness made my proposal dream come true. And to everyone who cheered for us, we’ll never forget your support.”

A Future Built on Love and Tradition

Looking ahead, Brown and Guillero are excited about their future together.

Brown plans to return to the Dinagsa Festival every year to celebrate with Christine and the people of Cadiz.

“I love the Philippines, and Cadiz has become like a second home to me,” he said.

Reflecting on their journey, he added, “God is great. It doesn’t take long to know who you really want to be with.”

Their love story goes beyond distance and culture. Brown is grateful for the warmth and love he has received from Christine’s family and the people of Cadiz.

“The festival, the people, and the culture—it’s all been so welcoming,” Brown shared.

“It’s an honor to have such an important moment in our lives tied to Cadiz.”

As the Dinagsa Festival continues to celebrate the rich and diverse culture of Cadiz City, it now holds an even deeper meaning for Brown and Guillero.

Their love story—sealed under the colorful lights and vibrant sounds of the festival—will forever be remembered as one of their most cherished moments.