New era for DonBelle: Phenomenal duo headlines major 2026 Star Cinema project

• Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano officially announced their 2026 cinematic reunion during a live performance on the "ASAP" stage
• The upcoming project marks the pair’s first lead film under Star Cinema since their 2022 box-office hit, "An Inconvenient Love"
• A special VTR teased a more emotionally deep and mature story, highlighting the growth of the New Gen Phenomenal Love Team
• Fans worldwide sent the announcement to the top of trending charts, anticipating a record-breaking theatrical release this year

The long wait is finally over for fans of the "New Gen Phenomenal Love Team," as Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano, collectively known as DonBelle, are officially set to return to the silver screen this 2026.

The major announcement was made during a high-energy appearance on the variety show "ASAP" on February 1, where the duo teased their upcoming project under Star Cinema.

The revelation came during a special segment where a video teaser (VTR) showcased highlights of the pair’s previous milestones before flashing the news that sent the live audience into a frenzy.

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This new movie marks their first major film project since the 2022 romantic comedy An Inconvenient Love, directed by Petersen Vargas.

While specific plot details and the director for the 2026 project remain under wraps, the teaser hinted at a more mature and emotionally resonant narrative designed to showcase the duo's evolving acting range.

Before the big reveal, Donny and Belle performed a soulful rendition of "Wala Nang Iba," a performance that served as a reminder of the undeniable chemistry that has cemented their status as a generation-defining pair.

The upcoming DonBelle film is a centerpiece of Star Cinema’s ambitious 2026 lineup. Industry insiders suggest that the film studio is doubling down on high-quality romances and character-driven dramas to revitalize the local theatrical experience.

For Donny and Belle, this project represents a significant step forward, moving past their "teen" roots into more complex storytelling that reflects their growth as individual performers.

Since their breakout in the series He’s Into Her, DonBelle has maintained a massive and dedicated following that transcends digital platforms.

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Their return to cinemas is expected to be a major box-office draw, particularly after a three-year hiatus from lead film roles.

Fans have already taken to social media to express their excitement, with tags related to the announcement trending worldwide within minutes of the "ASAP" broadcast.

As Star Cinema prepares to roll out more details in the coming months, one thing is certain: the DonBelle phenomenon is far from over, and 2026 is shaping up to be the year of their biggest "comeback" yet.

Belle Mariano is a versatile Filipino actress and singer who entered the industry as a nine-year-old commercial model before joining the cast of Goin' Bulilit. After years of portraying younger versions of lead characters, she rose to "New Gen Phenomenal" status following the success of the series He’s Into Her. Now a historic Seoul International Drama Awardee, she remains a top-tier star alongside her partner Donny Pangilinan.

Belle recently showcased her sophisticated home interiors, emphasizing the importance of having a personal sanctuary for relaxation. The Kapamilya star expressed deep appreciation for her interior design team, specifically mentioning how they transformed her vision into a "happy place." The social media reveal quickly became a trending topic, with fellow celebrities like Anne Curtis and Donny Pangilinan praising the home’s elegant and calming atmosphere. Fans and industry peers alike were captivated by the residence’s cozy yet contemporary aesthetic, which features a neutral palette and expansive natural lighting.

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Previously, Belle confirmed that she and her family have officially relocated to their newly completed dream residence. Belle took to her digital platforms to celebrate the big move, describing the transition as a monumental achievement for her and her loved ones. The actress delighted her followers by sharing a curated gallery of photos, offering a rare look at the striking architecture of her multi-story home. In an emotional caption, Belle noted her immense gratitude for this "new chapter," reflecting on the hard work that allowed her to build a home at such a young age.

Source: KAMI.com.gh