Kapamilya actress Belle Mariano opened up about stepping out of her comfort zone by taking on solo projects before reuniting with screen partner Donny Pangilinan in their upcoming film “Tayo Sa Wakas”
In an interview on the podcast “Oh My Gan,” Mariano shared that while working separately from Pangilinan initially brought some nervousness, the time apart ultimately helped both of them grow individually as artists.
“May kaba nung una,” she admitted. “Kasi siyempre, may approach na kayo sa isa’t isa. Alam mo na 'yung gagawin ng isa. Pero I feel like it’s a much-needed break.”
According to the actress, their time focusing on separate projects allowed them to explore different acting styles and learn from other industry veterans.
“Yung mga nakatrabaho naming artista outside of DonBelle, talagang may sobrang natutunan ako like kay Inay (Maricel Soriano), kay Papa P (Piolo Pascual). As in grabe talaga 'yung natutunan ko,” Mariano said, referring to working alongside seasoned actors on the movie "Meet, Greet & Bye."
For Mariano, the experience opened her eyes to new creative possibilities. “Sabi ko, okay, this is how it’s like pala to work with someone else. So parang there’s excitement too now. There’s more excitement kasi we’re finally working together again,” she said.
Despite temporarily pursuing separate projects, Mariano emphasized that their supporters remained loyal and supportive of both her and Pangilinan’s individual careers.
“Our supporters, whether individual projects or together, they’re very supportive talaga,” she said. “Kita mo 'yung support regardless if Donny is doing something alone or I’m doing something alone.”
The pair, collectively known as the popular “DonBelle” love team, have been working together for five years. Over time, Mariano said their professional partnership has evolved into a deep friendship.
“He’s the person I can call whenever I’m feeling down,” she shared. “He’s really someone special. He’s a blessing not just to me but also to our supporters.”
Mariano also revealed that Pangilinan played a key role in conceptualizing the teaser for their upcoming film.
“Even up to the teaser for the project announcement of 'Tayo Sa Wakas,' it was actually Donny’s idea. He conceptualized the whole thing,” she said.
Belle Mariano. Screen grab: YouTube/ABS-CBN News
Both actors have been hands-on in developing the project, ensuring that it delivers something new for their audience.
“We want to put good content out there that our supporters would enjoy,” Mariano explained. “Siguro may pressure, but it’s good pressure because we’re happy that we’re making other people happy most especially our supporters.”
Mariano also shared one of her recent memorable moments with Pangilinan while filming the teaser for the project announcement.
“May phase na mahaba 'yung hair niya tapos inaasar ko siya na mukhang Justin Bieber,” she laughed, recalling the playful moment during filming.
Looking ahead, Mariano said she remains open to continuing her collaborations with Pangilinan while also supporting each other’s individual growth.
“I’m always open to working with Donny,” she said. “Nakakatuwa kasi I can see him grow too. Parang fan niya rin ako.”
As for their upcoming film, Mariano hinted that the story will show a more mature side of their love team.
“Emotional-wise, mas mature,” she said, adding that the role is one of the most challenging she has faced so far.
“Every role is challenging for me, but this one I feel like ma-cha-challenge talaga ako.”
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