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Celeb Feature

Snooky Serna Talks Loveteams: Why DonBelle and others Prove It Still Works—But She’s Not Entirely For It

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Snooky Serna, one of Philippine cinema’s most enduring stars, recently opened up about the loveteam phenomenon that helped launch her career—while offering a refreshingly candid take on its impact.

Serna became a household name in the ’90s through her pairing with Gabby Concepcion, a team-up that she admits was beneficial. *“I will admit that nakatulong in my career… But I’m not to…for it? I’m not against it. I’m not really excited about it,”* she shared with Boy Abunda.

Rather than romanticizing the concept, Serna emphasized its potential to box in young talent. *“Nawawala agad ang identity mo as an actor. Nasti-stifle agad… And more importantly, batang-bata pa lang kayo, nade-develop agad ’yung malisya sa isa’t isa,”* she noted, adding a layer of concern not often heard in showbiz circles.

When asked about today’s loveteams, however, Serna acknowledged the powerful staying power of the formula. *“Oo naman, nakikita ko kina Donny, kina Belle, kina Ruru, Bianca,”* she said—highlighting Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano as part of the current generation that’s keeping the tradition alive.

Now reunited with former partner Gabby Concepcion in *My Father’s Wife* on GMA Prime, Serna reflects on their full-circle moment with fondness. *“’Yung beauty ni Gabby is classic, and never fading,”* she said, praising her longtime onscreen partner with enduring admiration.

While Serna remains critical of the limitations loveteams may impose, she recognizes their undeniable influence on Philippine entertainment—and names like Belle and Donny are proving just how resonant that magic still is.