Kapamilya actress-singer Belle Mariano has called on fans to stop spreading negativity online, urging them instead to choose kindness and understanding amid the ongoing issue involving her, Donny Pangilinan, and Kapuso actress Shuvee Etrata.
In a message posted on her Instagram Story, Mariano addressed the situation directly, asking supporters to de-escalate tensions.
“Hi all! I call on everyone to let go of the negativity and hate that’s been going around,” she said.
“There are bigger, more important things that need our attention. Let’s choose kindness, patience, and understanding. Wag na po tayong mag-away-away. Have a blessed Holy Week, everyone,” she added.
The appeal comes after a viral video of Etrata fangirling over Pangilinan sparked backlash from some fans of the DonBelle tandem. Etrata has since apologized, saying, “Gusto ko pong mag-sorry if I reacted that way… I will do my best para mapigilan po yung nararamdaman natin next time,” while clarifying that Pangilinan is only her crush.
Earlier, Pangilinan also addressed the issue through posts on X (formerly Twitter), defending both Mariano and Etrata while calling for an end to online hate and comparisons.
“I don’t usually speak up, but I think it’s about time we stop spreading hate and constantly comparing people. There are far more important things happening in our country,” he said.
He further emphasized the impact of online negativity, stating, “I feel like we’ve gotten too comfortable throwing hate online without thinking about how that affects actual human beings who have done nothing wrong. This is for all fandoms. Artists have lives, too. It’s gone below the belt.”
Pangilinan also urged netizens to leave Mariano out of the issue, saying, “As for Belle, please keep her out of your narratives. She is beautiful, talented, and most importantly, has a great heart. Nothing you say or do will change that.”