First date

In an interview with TheManilaTimes, Yu,a chef who ran an Italian restaurant and catering business when she first met Pimentel, said they chose to marry today because it was on October 18, 2013 when they first had their official date.

A common friend introduced them at a political gathering in May of that same year, and was surprised when the senator’s office called her to schedule a catering service soon after.

“He was quiet [when we first met], and we only had the usual small talk [at the party,” Yu recalled.

As it turned out, she made a huge impression on the legislator, who devised a move to connect with her.

Unaware she had a very ardent admirer in her famous client, Yu was very businesslike in her dealings with Pimentel’s staff.

Yu said: “Angkuripotng budget nila ( They had a very cheap budget)!”

“I almost wanted to back out because his secretary was giving me fast food rates! But I had initially said yes when they called because we had the date open for catering so I kept my word,” she told TheManilaTimes.