If you see Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano sporting a sun-kissed glow lately, it's because they just came from the picturesque La Union, where they recently wrapped filming their rom-com series, "How To Spot A Red Flag," which is already making waves on Viu, and is set to bring its fresh charm to free TV soon.
DonBelle says the positive feedback for the show has been truly heartwarming, especially since they've long been wanting to do a rom-com project, or something light, just a feel-good story not only for the audience but for them as actors as well. “’Pag pupunta ka sa set, hindi mo kailangang isipin, ‘May papatayin ba ‘yung character ko?’” quipped Donny during his guest appearance with Belle on Kapamilya Chat.
Just as happy as the scenes look on screen, the vibe behind the cameras was equally fun. It's the light and relaxed atmosphere on set that made the entire experience a joy for DonBelle, and which also made it easy to bring that same feel-good energy into the scenes. Belle shared how thrilled she feels when reading comments from fans about how the show entertains and spreads positivity, “Natutuwa ako kasi nagra-radiate sa kanila ‘yung good vibes ng set namin.”
And honestly, who wouldn’t enjoy filming a series with the stunning La Union as the backdrop? For the cast, every workday felt like mini vacation, especially for Belle, who got to experience La Union for the first time and even had to learn how to surf for her role—literally balancing work and play!
Even Donny enjoyed surfing, too. “Nakakaadik din mag-surf talaga. Sobrang saya na nando’n ka lang sa waves tapos maganda ‘yung hangin and the sun’s out,"shared Donny, sounding every bit like the true 'beach boy' he is. Belle may downplay her skills as a first-timer, but Donny was quick to point out that she did great for a beginner. She even managed to stand on the surfboard just on her first try.
If "How To Spot A Red Flag" has inspired you to head to La Union and try surfing yourself, Donny and Belle have some helpful tips. First, check the season because the waves can vary—some days are calm while others bring bigger swells. Second, seek help from professional instructors for proper guidance. And most importantly, take the plunge! Donny assures that surfing isn’t as hard as it looks once you give it a shot.
When asked to pick a Kapamilya star they'd like to surf with next, DonBelle was quick to mention their co-star Esnyr Ranollo, who was also a fearless surfing newbie. Donny even joked about being Esnyr’s surf videographer, which he already did in Esnyr's latest Instagram reel.
And with La Union local Mylene Dizon in the cast, she guided them in exploring the area and making the most of the activities it has to offer.
Beyond the summer romance of "How To Spot A Red Flag," the series also delves into the more serious and darker side of online life, tackling issues like catfishing. This theme is seamlessly woven into the love story of Matt (Donny) and Cha (Belle). True to their commitment to using their platforms to raise awareness, DonBelle hopes this part of the story helps remind viewers to stay cautious and aware of the risks in their online interactions.
“Always double-check kung talagang mapagkakatiwalaan ang tao,” Belle shared, noting how the rise of artificial intelligence has made fake news and misleading content even more common.
“Nangyayari talaga and it really affects people,” Donny added. Reflecting on their characters' journey, he pointed out how being a victim of catfishing can deeply impact someone’s mental health, especially when they’ve invested time, money, and emotions into a connection that turns out to be based on a fake profile.
Moving on, still in keeping with the story’s theme, DonBelle was asked what they would consider the biggest red flag in a relationship, and they pointed out a situation that many can relate to. “’Pag ayaw sa pamilya mo at ayaw ng pamilya mo siya,” Donny answered.
Belle also mentioned that lack of respect is a sign it’s time to walk away. However, she believes there's nothing wrong with giving someone a chance to make things right after a major red flag. “Hindi ko ba kayang magpatawad? Diyos nga napatawad tayong lahat. If God was able to forgive me, why can’t I forgive other people?” explained Belle.
But forgiveness doesn’t mean everything goes back to normal immediately. It’s never a linear process, and it takes time, as Belle pointed out. Donny added that if someone continues to repeat their mistakes after being forgiven, it’s no longer just a mistake, but a pattern that needs to end. “Kahit na-forgive mo na siya, kailangan mag-set ka pa rin ng boundaries sa taong ‘yun kasi baka mag-translate sa’yo yun, eh,” he imparted.
So if you’re ready for some rom-com moments and a deeper look at love in this digital age, make sure to catch "How To Spot A Red Flag" as it airs on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z and TV5 starting January 27.