Love or career?

A question that can make one pause, rethink, and even second guess their choices; and for some, it could be a high-stakes decision that could ultimately shape how their future would look like.

Even Gen Z celebrities aren’t immune to this dilemma. Take Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, collectively known as DonBelle, who have long captivated audiences with their on and off-cam chemistry. 

After more than half a decade, they are stepping into a new era as they embark on their last project together, at least for now, which is “Tayo Sa Wakas.” This decision of DonBelle to take a step back feels less like a break, but more of a reflection of a generation learning to prioritize growth — both individually and together — even if it could mean redefining what “together” looks like.

Speaking to the media, Donny shared how their upcoming romantic drama movie, directed by Cathy Garcia-Sampana, would highlight his different eras with his onscreen partner, as it tackles the story of a couple in various seasons of love.

“You’ll start with the kilig, the honeymoon phase, then you go to the realization that you become familiar with each other, and doon na ‘yong problems na mag-a-arise,” he said. “It’s a combination of all our characters in different stages of their lives.”

More than their roles, Belle believes “Tayo Sa Wakas” will showcase their newer and more mature sides, as she calls it the “perfect” choice for their last project for the time being.

“Donny and I have been vocal about it naman. We just don’t wanna be DonBelle; we also wanna be Donny and Belle,” the actress said.

When asked how they knew it’s time to go their own ways for now, Donny and Belle told ZEEN it all boiled down to finding both the right timing and material.

“We would talk about it project after project: ‘Kailan kaya tayo magkakaroon ng ganitong klaseng transition or phase to a different direction, or when do we pause?’ And when we were presented this material [….], sabi namin sa isa’t isa, ‘I think this is the best time,’” said Donny. “It just felt like the right time.” 

For a love team raised in the spotlight, choosing to step away from something that “works” publicly speaks volumes. It’s very telling of how this generation deeply yearns for and gives value to individuality — being brave enough to acknowledge the need to outgrow the versions of themselves that once fit, and break away from the “forever” myth often expected of Filipino love teams.

With this shift, DonBelle proves choosing yourself is just as important as choosing your relationship.