Dionisia Pacquiao, 76, the mother of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, has confirmed that she and her longtime partner, Michael “Mike” Yamson, 48, are now ready to take their relationship to the altar after over a decade together.
In a recent interview with broadcaster Bernadette Sembrano on her YouTube vlog, the couple was directly asked if they had plans to marry. Mike confidently replied, “Yes! Oo naman,” while Dionisia added in her native language, “May plano naman. Mayroon na ring wedding ring.”
The couple’s relationship, which began over 11 years ago, has long faced public criticism due to their significant 28-year age gap. However, Mike dismissed negative remarks and reiterated that his love for Dionisia is genuine.
“Hindi mo maiiwasan talaga, napaka-below the belt, mga grabe na salita. Hindi ko na pinapansin, hindi ko na iniinda ’yan,” he said, noting that feelings cannot be faked for such a long period. “Lalabas at lalabas kung ano talagang ang intention mo sa partner mo.”
Dionisia revealed that Mike once made her a touching promise: “Honey, patunayan ko sa’yo, kamatayan lang ang hiwalay natin. Kung sino ang mauna sa’tin, kamatayan lang ang maghiwalay sa’tin.”
She recalled an early moment in their relationship that proved his sincerity. During a heated argument, she packed his clothes and told him to go home, but Mike tearfully pleaded with her bodyguards to convince her not to send him away.
Mike expressed his commitment to making their relationship last by constantly adjusting to each other. “Mamahalin ka, aalagaan ka… At lagi tayong mag-aadjust sa isa’t isa kasi every day, every hour, may adjustment ang pagsasama,” he said, adding that understanding, patience, and prayer are key to their bond.
For her part, Dionisia praised Mike’s patience and care. “Believe ako sa’yo. Love na love kita, love na love mo ako… Kapag ako ang nagalit, tahimik ka. Kapag ikaw magalit, tahimik din ako. Nandiyan ang adjustment nating dalawa.”
The couple, who went public with their romance in 2014, celebrated their 11th anniversary in February. With wedding rings already prepared, they seem determined to prove that love — regardless of age — can stand the test of time.