Maki, nag-react sa pag-ship sa kanya at SB19 Justin de Dios
- Maki addressed online fan discussions pairing him with SB19’s Justin de Dios following the release of the “Habangbuhay Pansamantala” music video
- Speaking to ABS-CBN News during a media conference, Maki said he is fine with shipping as long as it does not become intrusive or misleading about their personal lives
- He emphasized that he and Justin are very close friends who share similar passions in music and the arts
- He added that the song’s visual story explores the idea of love that exists beyond limitations and different realities
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Singer-songwriter Maki has broken his silence regarding the sudden wave of romantic "shipping" between him and Justin de Dios of the P-pop group SB19.
Source: Instagram
The online speculation ignited immediately after the premiere of the music video for his latest track, “Habangbuhay Pansamantala.” Since its debut, the cinematic visual asset has quickly gathered massive traction online, amassing over 240,000 views on YouTube as fans dissect the on-screen chemistry between the two artists.
During a press conference held on Thursday, May 28, Maki shared that he and Justin actually anticipated the public reaction long before the music video was released to the public. Expressing his thoughts to ABS-CBN News, Maki emphasized that he sees no harm in fans playfully pairing them together, provided that the online community maintains healthy boundaries and avoids making wild assumptions about their actual personal lives.
"Wala namang problema sa shipping as long as moderated. Kumbaga parang hindi siya OA, hindi siya nagju-jump into conclusions. Actually, me and Justin napansin na namin 'yan. Kami rin naman sinabi rin namin na parang feeling ko ishi-ship tayo kapag lumabas 'yung music video."
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The hitmaker, who has built a massive following through his uniquely conceptualized color-coded discography, further clarified that he remains highly transparent with his audience. However, Maki noted that while he cannot dictate how the public reacts, viewers should refrain from overstepping or projecting false narratives onto the artists involved.
"But, para sa akin, wala naman kasing problema sa ganoon as long as people are not putting words in our mouths or not being too intrusive sa mga life ng artists. Kasi ako I've been open, I've been open for a long time naman, wala naman akong ano. 'Yung mga ganoon hindi ko kayang kontrolin eh,"
When detailing the actual nature of their bond behind the scenes, Maki rejected any romantic notions and instead characterized their connection as an incredibly close, sibling-like companionship. He noted that their deep friendship stems from a shared passion for creative expression, comparing their dynamic to his existing close relationship with fellow musician Angela Ken.
"Para kaming kambal, 'yung mga ideas namin, the things that we want to do in our lives, 'yung mga hilig namin sa arts especially. Doon kami pinaka-nagkasundo, kasi Justin is mayroon siyang advocacy when it comes to arts. So doon kami pinaka-nagkasundo. Minsan lumalabas kami kasama ang mga friends namin. Para din siyang si Angela (Ken) for me, so naging triplets na kami. Ang saya-saya."
Beyond the real-world chatter surrounding their friendship, the discussion shifted to the thematic depth of the "habangbuhay pansamantala" music video itself. Maki explained that the narrative delves into the complexities of romance across parallel dimensions, portraying the concept of an unyielding affection that exists independently of human limitations or physical realities.
"There’s a love that we cannot control, and there’s a love that’s timeless — love that is not bounded by time, space, or anything in this world."
Concluding his explanation of the song's emotional weight, Maki described love as an absolute and unstoppable force. He observed that human hearts naturally retain a permanent vulnerability for specific individuals, persisting even through instances of mistreatment or the painful experience of being unreciprocated.
"Para sa akin 'yun naman talaga 'yung pinaka-feeling ng love, parang unstoppable siya. Na kahit anong mangyari, kahit masama itong taong ito sa iyo minsan or kapag nagiging backburner ka you have a soft spot. Para sa akin 'yun ang pinaka-core ng heart natin, 'yung soft spot natin for certain people."
Maki, whose real name is Ralph William Datoon, was born on November 27, 1999, in Quezon City. He is a Filipino singer-songwriter signed under Tarsier Records, recognized for his emotional blend of alternative pop and R&B. A graduate of communications from New Era University, he first drew attention in 2023 with his debut EP Tanong, which included songs such as “Saan?” and “Bakit?”. His major breakthrough arrived in 2024 when “Dilaw” topped the relaunched Billboard Philippines Hot 100 and entered Spotify’s global charts. Since then, he has released tracks like “Namumula,” “Bughaw,” and “Kahel na Langit,” establishing himself as a relatable voice for Gen Z through themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery.
Through a post on X, Maki rencently spoke about political issues in the Philippines and reflected on staying apolitical during current social challenges. The “Dilaw” singer’s remarks gained support online and fueled conversations about civic responsibility.
In 2025, Maki revealed during an interview on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda that he experienced harassment during an audition at the age of 15. He said he felt “really, really exposed” after inappropriate questions were raised behind closed doors. The incident made him question his place in the entertainment industry.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
