Kapamilya actress and singer Belle Mariano opened up about navigating the pressures of fame, social media, and mental health, sharing how she stays grounded despite the overwhelming attention that comes with being one of today’s most followed young stars.
In a candid conversation on the podcast “Oh My Gan!”, hosted by entertainment journalist Ganiel Krishnan, Mariano reflected on the reality of having millions of supporters while also protecting her personal well-being.
According to the actress, social media plays a huge role in shaping how celebrities experience fame today, something she admits can be both empowering and overwhelming.
“Given social media, I think there’s two sides. Double-edged sword siya for me. There’s good and bad,” Mariano said. “Feeling ko you just really need to learn how to differentiate what’s good for you and what’s not.”
Despite her high-profile career, Mariano shared that she makes a conscious effort not to let the pressures of showbiz affect her life outside the industry.
“Hindi ko hinayaan 'yung life ko outside showbiz na ma-affect,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of spending time with family and close friends to stay grounded.
The actress also spoke warmly about the loyal supporters she shares with her love team partner Donny Pangilinan, popularly known as “DonBelle.”
“Grabe 'yung support nila. Parang more than supporters, para silang nagiging family na namin,” she said. “Kilala na namin 'yung mga names nila. Tuwing nagga-gathering kami, hindi lang sila supporters. Friends din sila.”
For Mariano, seeing that level of support motivates her to continue giving her best in every project.
“When I see that kind of love, nakaka-move. These people actually support you, and you want to do your best more for them,” she added.
However, the actress acknowledged that the digital world also exposes celebrities to criticism and negativity.
“The bashing? I feel like never-ending naman ang bashing sa social media,” she said. “Everyone has something to say about someone.”
Still, Mariano emphasized the importance of self-awareness and confidence in dealing with online criticism.
“By the end of the day, just know who you are. It’s easier said than done, but if you know yourself, these people or trolls, bots, whatever shouldn’t matter.”
Belle Mariano. Screen grab: YouTube/ABS-CBN News
She also stressed the responsibility that comes with having a public platform, especially in the age of social media where every post or comment can influence others.
“I feel like right now with the whole social media thing, we have to be more responsible in what we put out there,” she said. “That’s one message I want to share with everyone.”
When asked about the expectations surrounding her and Pangilinan’s love team, Mariano said their connection with fans has always been rooted in authenticity rather than pressure.
“What you see is what you get,” she said. “We genuinely care for each other, and we’re very grateful for our supporters.”
But she also acknowledged that fan culture can sometimes cross the line, particularly when supporters begin comparing or pitting people against each other online.
“It becomes toxic if nakakatapak na ng ibang tao,” she noted.
Ultimately, Mariano hopes that fans and social media users alike remember the power their words can carry.
“We all have the power to change someone’s life through social media,” she said. “That’s why we have to be responsible, put good things out there instead of spreading negativity.”
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