LOOK: Jose Sarasola and Maria Ozawa's sweetest photos

Closing in on their fourth anniversary as a couple, celebrity chef Jose Sarasola and Japanese actress-turned-businesswoman Maria Ozawa are proving that love can definitely conquer anything.

Their love story began around 2016 after he met Maria at a bar he owned when a friend brought her there. The two eventually became closer through phone calls and texts, and started seeing each other towards the end of that year.

Months later, rumors of the two dating circulated on social media after they began posting each other's photos online. Despite the support of many netizens for the love to blossom, a few also tried to mock the relationship given Maria's past.

Now leading to their fourth year, Jose and Maria's love are stronger despite the distance.

In an interview with GMA News Online, Jose said, “When she left, I think the first month of April, was really challenging but the good thing about technology now is it's easy to keep in touch with your loved ones abroad.”

He added, “There are many apps that you can use to talk to people so that's what we're really trying to do now. It's more on keeping the communication na you're still talking pa rin to your loved one abroad.

“Kasi kapag nawala 'yung communication dun mag-start 'yung problema.”

Amidst all the trials, the Filipino-Japanese relationship has proven that they are more than what meets the eye. Their love story is a testament that regardless of differences in language and culture (even somewhat of a controversial past) can hinder a love that sparks tenfold.

Let's take a look at their sweetest photos in this gallery: