It's confirmed! Basketball player Ricci Rivero and Los Banos municipal councilor Leren Mae Bautista are in a relationship.

This after Rivero wrote a sweet and meaningful post to Leren on Instagram on Oct. 21.

In his post, Ricci described Leren as his real queen as he vowed to protect her. He also posted a picture of himself holding hands with Leren. 

Last month, Ricci, the two-time UAAP champion, is set to step foot in the PBA after he was drafted by the Phoenix Fuel Masters..

His full post:

"To the girl who I see as a real queen With all the wrongs hounding me, I’m blessed to have found the right one. Allow me to shield you from things you don’t deserve.

"Hindi tayo magtatago dahil walang dapat ikahiya. Walang nang agaw at walang inagaw. Walang bibitaw dahil masaya tayong magka hawak kamay.

"I love seeing how you genuinely continue to help and care for people every day despite others trying to ruin your reputation. Rest assured I will be with you in inspiring people to always be better. Thank you for being so selfless and simple.

"I promise to never again live a life manipulated by someone’s fantasy. This is our story, hindi dapat iba ang mag kwento ng storya nating dalawa!"

Netizens were thrilled at the post of Ricci. Some comments:

"So happy for both of you 🩷 kilig naman!! alam natin ang totoo and that’s all that matters."

"yaaas! see you both at the games soon."

"Yieeeee 🫶🏽 Tara naaa unli dimsum!!"

"Stay happy and continue to find your inner peace."

Previously, Ricci was in a relationship with actress Andrea Brillantes. In June, Ricci confirmed split with Andrea.