As the popular tandem Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, known collectively as “DonBelle,” prepare to release their upcoming film Tayo Sa Wakas, the two stars opened up about the personal boundaries and “non-negotiables” that define their views on love and partnership.
Speaking at a media event following the announcement that the film will be their last joint project for the foreseeable future, Mariano was candid about the emotional cost of losing one’s identity in a relationship.
“If that person makes me lose myself in the process of loving him and [losing] trust.”
Pangilinan echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that a divergence in life paths and the erosion of self-identity are critical red flags. According to the actor, a relationship enters dangerous territory when partners stop growing together or pursuing their own purpose.
“When you don’t have the same dreams anymore [and] aspirations… parang nakalimutan niyo yung sarili niyo. Maybe it’s time to think twice.”
The pair also discussed the dangers of staying in a “toxic” situation simply to avoid loneliness.
During the film’s A Night of Stories and Songs event, Mariano advised that letting go—though difficult—is often the most honest act one can perform for their partner.
“You should let go, easier said than done kasi kawawa rin yung isang tao yung partner mo if you’re just staying for the sake of it. Niloloko mo rin ang sarili mo so pakawalan mo na.”
Pangilinan described the act of staying in a broken relationship as a “band-aid solution” that only delays an inevitable breaking point.
“Kumbaga ang ginagawa niyo na ay band aid [solution] eh, it’s temporary… it will get to a breaking point. Do you want to reach that breaking point where everything goes out of hand?”
The revelation comes at a poignant time for the tandem, as they recently confirmed a mutual decision to pursue individual careers after years of working exclusively together. Tayo Sa Wakas is set to premiere in cinemas on May 27.