The Man Behind the Uniform: Mr. “Hot Cop” PO2 Mariano Flormata, Jr.

Published August 25, 2014 9:12am

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"Pulis makisig" PO2 Mariano Flormata Jr., a member of PNP's Aviation Security Group, is also a candidate in this year's Misters of the Philippines. Ariel Fernandez

When we mention police officers, we think of big, burly men with serious expressions and intimidating weapons. Not until last week, when news of a dashing policeman joining the Misters of the Philippines 2014 pageant hit social media. Pinoy netizens were pleasantly surprised to have their common misconceptions challenged.

With his muscular physique and attractive face, PO2 Mariano Perez Flormata, Jr. or “Neil Perez” to many, has successfully captured Pinoy netizens’ hearts. But have you ever wondered how Mr. “Hot Cop” is like in real life?

The man behind the uniform

Twenty-nine-year old Mariano Perez Flormata, Jr.has been a member of PNP's Aviation Security Group for almost six years. A graduate of BS Criminology from Manuel L. Quezon University, PO2 Flormata specializes in anti-aircraft hijacking, and is part of the NAIA team in charge of responding to bomb threats and terrorist attacks.

"Ang father ko dating police officer din. Retired police officer. Kaya ako naman ang sumunod," PO2 Flormata revealed.

However, people around him thought that he has potential to do more than his duties as a policeman. Constant prodding from his fellow officers convinced PO2 Flormata to try his luck as a candidate in this year's Misters of the Philippines.

It's his first time to join such a competition, but he was chosen as one of the 27 finalists who will vie for the Mister of the Philippines title. Standing tall at 5’ 11” and armed with a toned physique, PO2 Flormata has a chance to win the contest.

But is it enough?

"To be honest he's not perfect. Aminin na natin ‘yan kasi he's just starting, 'di ba? Marami pa siyang kailangang i-improve," ageant-coach Mark Manilapaz said. "Sana makuha rin niya 'yung kumpiyansa, ‘yung hundred percent confidence na kailangan sa ganitong business. He's not only representing Manila, but also the whole Philippine National Police."

Although he's a pageant greenhorn, PO2 Flormata tries his best to train for the upcoming event on September.

"Misters of the Philippines pageant can bring additional opportunities for me in terms of exposure which will eventually help me financially. Through this pageant, I can also show to other people that I can do more aside from being a Police Officer," he said.

Internet sensation

He hasn't won the competition yet, but PO2 Flormata is already famous among Pinoy social media users. Netizens adore how he shows a different side of the police force. At work, some passengers in NAIA ask to have their photos taken with him. PO2 Flormata gamely poses with people who recognize him but remains shy with all the attention he receives.

"Kinukulit nila ako. 'Huwag mo kaming kakalimutan,' mga ganun. Tapos magpapa-picture," he said with a smile.

Some of his acquaintances also tell him that he has inspired them to work out. "Marami na pong nagte-text sa akin."

"Masaya po kasi ito rin po 'yung pino-promote ko. 'Yung healthy lifestyle. Atsaka ipapakita ko rin na 'yung pulis 'di lang puwede sa panghuli ng krimen kungdi [sa] pagsali rin sa ganitong pageant," he said.

PO2 Flormata added that he's also happy that he can help give PNP a positive image. "Maganda rin po ‘yung hangarin ko na ipakita sa tao na ang pulis nga po eh physically fit."

He is not alone in his cause. A statement released by the PNP expressed their support for him. As long as his bid doesn't interfere with his duties, the PNP will allow PO2 Flormata to compete. His fellow cops are also proud that he's able to show that policemen are disciplined.

Love and hobbies

PO2 Flormata spends his free time playing basketball or target shooting. He can also sing, sketch, and play the guitar. He revealed that he wants to have a business in the future.

"My ambition in life is to have my own business and at the same time provide for my family and my future. I am [a] very ambitious person and I think it's good that you set your goals in life in order for you to fight and survive in this ever changing world."

As for admirers who are wondering if the handsome police officer is still single, PO2 Flormata admits that he's not available anymore.

"May girlfriend na ako. Since high school nagkakilala kami. On and off pero ngayon nakaka-three years na tuluy-tuloy naman na ‘yung relationship namin."

Misters of the Philippines will be held on September. Win or lose, PO2 Flormata has already succeeded in one thing — helping improve the image of the country’s police force.

Eventually, he also hopes that being the local force’s “Hot Cop” will bring him one step closer to making his dreams come true.

This story was originally aired on Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho. KMJS airs every Sundays, 7:45 PM on GMA-7.

— Lara Gonzales/ARP, GMA News

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