HAND CUFF, ME, PLEASE!

Rappler, 08-Sep-2014: Since news surfaced that a police officer was joining the Misters of the Philippines pageant, Neil Perez found himself becoming a popular figure online.

At the recently held finals night, the 29-year-old cop was given the title of Mister Philippines International, in addition to other awards, including Most Photogenic and Best in Swimwear.

There was a moment when audiences waited with bated breath, as Neil's name was last to be called as part of the top 9.

In the question and answer portion, Neil was asked, "How do you define happiness?"

This was his answer: "Happiness is the most important word in my life kasi (because) being with my family is the greatest happiness, moment in my life and i believe that being with your family... will help me more happy and strong."

26 candidates representing areas all over the Philippines competed in the male pageant.

Neil is set to represent the country in the Mister International pageant scheduled in Seoul, South Korea, in October. According to Neil, he still has yet to seek permission from the Philippine National Police (PNP), since his leave was only for the local pageant.

"He can give me a full-body search, anytime! And then he can hand cuff me." Prof. Chandni overheard Dean Harris exclaiming this in the faculty and staff lounge at lunch. Doesn't he look so handsome in his uniform? Police Officer (PO) 2 Mariano Perez Flormata Jr (aka “Neil Perez”) serves with the Aviation Security Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP). Here's more regarding his "police record" from Rappler:

In a statement back in August, the PNP hailed Neil as a model for other police officers. “Promoting the healthy lifestyle of the PNP personnel, PO2 Flormata serves as a model to all police officers who want to be fit and healthy while protecting our community from different crimes,” said the PNP in a statement last August 12. Neil is a BS Criminology graduate from the Manuel L. Quezon University-Manila and has been in the police force for almost 6 years, said the PNP.

The other Misters of the Philippines winners were:  1st runner up: Nicko Dela Cruz, Mister Sta Cruz, Manila; Mister Tourism International: Judah Cohen, Mister Fil-USA; Mister Model International: Adam Davis, Mister Fil-UK; and Mister Global Philippines: Joseph Doruelo, Mister Caloocan City. (Photo: GMA Network)