As one of the biggest head-turners during the first ever Star Magic Prom held last March 30 at the Bellevue hotel in Alabang, love team partners Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano were considered part of the most successful and experienced artists to attend the event, which was composed mostly of the newer generation of Star Magic talents still in their teens. Before being crowned as the Prom King and Queen of the night, the couple known as Donbelle was asked to share some advice for the senior class group. 

READ: Belle Mariano wishes Donny Pangilinan a happy birthday

While wearing a black and white Francis Libiran gown, Belle started off her speech sharing her own experience as a child actress.

“I just hope you guys are okay and you look stunning. You know we were talking earlier there and I just realized, I’ve been in the industry for almost 12 years. I started when I was nine and I was trying to see what I can tell you guys (about her experience) and one thing really stuck with me is patience.

“There was a time na I really wanted to stop. I started to question if this was for me. And I started to question myself. But then along the way, I also learned how to believe and to dream. I learned how to believe in myself, I learned how to believe in the management, but mostly, I learned how to believe that God’s plans will fall accordingly. And I want you to embody that. And one thing I also learned is humility. Because that’s one thing that will take you further in life,” she said. 

READ: Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano welcomed by 'Bubblies' abroad

When it was his turn, Donny stressed the importance of having a good support system you can trust when working in the industry. 

“Unang una, it’s an honor to be able to be in front of you right now. Siguro ang masasabi ko lang is each and every single one of you here have a purpose in life. It’s no accident that you are literally sitting and standing where you are right now at this time tonight. There’s so many people who want to be in your place. And yet here you are. And that is because of a reason that you guys have to find out with yourself, with God, with the people who love you and that you love.

“And don’t forget the ones who have been with you since the very start as well. Because those are the ones who will believe in you and tell you the truth even if it hurts. So for me, this Star Magic family of ours, consider it your family talaga. Mga handlers niyo, mga road manager, pamilya niyo yan. They will fight for you and they will make sure they are there for you even at your lowest times.

“Surround yourself with people who will push you to reach your dreams and who will motivate you to strive for greatness always,” he explained.  

Donny also reminded the young celebrities to always look for opportunities to improve their craft and to not settle with mediocrity.

“Tama yung sinabi ni Belle, patience is key. Tita Cory (Vidanes) always says patience is a virtue and I know you guys are from Star Magic so if you took workshops, direk Rahyan (Carlos) would always say you are only as good as your last work. So never settle. The moment we figure out we’re the best, that’s where our downhill starts. There is always room for growth and to learn. You guys look amazing. I’m super excited to work with you guys soon. Sana magkita kita tayo sa mga projects,” he added. 

The couple earned the Star Magic Prom King and Queen award after receiving the most number of votes by the public. Other celebrities that were nominated for Prom King and Queen included Andrea Brillantes, Francine Diaz, Seth Fedelin, Jeremiah Lisbo, Kaori Oinuma, Anji Salvacion, Luis Vera Perez, and Brent Manalo,