CNN Hero of the Year, Efren Peñaflorida courting Angel Locsin

CNN Hero of the Year, Efren Peñaflorida courting Angel Locsin. In Manila, Philippines, after being named 2009 CNN Hero of the Year, Efren Peñaflorida is still on cloud nine. Actress Angel Locsin has a hero for a suitor this new year.

Aside from the rush that comes with bringing home an international award for his advocacy, he also met Locsin, his biggest crush, during the flight to the United States.

Aside from her acting talent, Peñaflorida said he also grew fond of Locsin because of her good heart.

Cornered on Sunday, it was Locsin's turn on the hot seat.

She told "The Buzz:" "Before pa magkaroon ng award sa kanya, magkaibigan na kami sa Facebook... Nagkita kami bago ako pumuntang Emmy. Sabay kami sa eroplano kasi. Doon kami nagkakilala talaga."

Amid reports that Peñaflorida is seriously pursuing courtship, Locsin gave her side on the issue.

"Dahil nga magulo ang buhay ko dahil nasa showbiz ako, ayokong 'yong hope na mabibigay niya sa mga tao maapektuhan dahil sa akin. Sinabi ko sa kanya kung ready na ba siya na harapin 'yong mga iyon... Gusto ko friendship muna ako," she said.

She admitted that the celebrated young Filipino visited her at home.

"Pumunta siya sa bahay. Kinausap ang daddy ko. Mas una niyang kinausap 'yong dad ko kaysa sa akin," she said.

Peñaflorida said he will take his chance with pursuing love.

"Bago ko inask, bago ko in-open sa kanya 'yon, 'yong mga intentions ko, ready na ako. Prepared ako doon sa kung ano man ang mangyayari," he said. -ANC