Love Beyond Age: Did Manny Pacquiao Really Oppose Mommy Dionisia’s Marriage to a Younger Man?

Introduction

When love knows no bounds—and no age—public curiosity is bound to follow. That’s exactly what happened when rumors resurfaced that legendary Filipino boxer-turned-senator Manny Pacquiao was allegedly against his mother, Dionisia Pacquiao, marrying her younger boyfriend, Michael Yamson.

Tabloid-style headlines exploded across social media:

“Manny Pacquiao TUTOL BA sa Planong PAGPAPAKASAL ni Mommy Dionisia sa MAS Batang BOYFRIEND Nito?”
(“Is Manny Pacquiao against his mother marrying her younger boyfriend?”)

The story caught fire—but what is fact, and what is fiction?

In this article, we go beyond the clickbait and take a comprehensive look at the history of Mommy Dionisia’s relationship, Manny’s actual stance, and what this says about family, tradition, and modern love in the public eye.

1. Who Is Mommy Dionisia’s Partner?

Mommy Dionisia, fondly known in the Philippines as “Mommy D,” has been in a long-standing relationship with Michael Yamson, a man reportedly around 27 years younger than her.

The two were first publicly linked in 2014, when Dionisia herself revealed that she was dating someone “much younger” but who, in her words, “respects me, loves me, and treats me right.”

Over the years, Yamson has made several appearances at public events with Mommy D, including some of Manny’s boxing matches. Their bond, while unconventional to some, has stood the test of time—now over a decade.

2. The 2014 Controversy: Manny’s Initial Opposition

While the couple’s love story may seem adorable now, back in 2014, it sparked controversy—especially after rumors surfaced that Mommy D was planning to marry Michael at that time.

Manny Pacquiao responded publicly with a carefully worded but clear statement:

“If you ask me or my siblings, we don’t agree. I told her: You are already married in the eyes of the Church. Please think carefully.”

At that time, Dionisia was reportedly still legally married to her estranged first husband, which raised concerns for Manny based on religious and moral grounds. As a devout Christian, Manny has always been vocal about his views on marriage and spiritual commitments.

So, yes—in 2014, Manny Pacquiao did express disapproval of his mother’s plans to remarry, but this was not about the age of her boyfriend—it was about legal and religious issues.

3. Fast Forward to 2025: What’s the Latest?

In August 2025, reports resurfaced that Mommy Dionisia and Michael Yamson are now seriously planning to get married.

Photos of Mommy D sporting a diamond ring have been circulating online, with sources close to the family hinting that wedding plans are indeed underway.

In a televised interview, Mommy Dionisia gleefully said:

“We’ve been together for a long time. It’s time. I want to be happy, and Michael makes me happy.”

This time, no strong opposition from Manny has been publicly recorded. In fact, recent interviews suggest that Manny may have come to terms with his mother’s decision—especially given how long the relationship has lasted.

4. Has Manny Pacquiao Changed His Mind?

There is no official statement from Manny Pacquiao in 2025 either opposing or supporting the wedding. However, observers note a noticeable shift in his public tone toward his mother’s relationship in recent years.

While once vocal about his reservations, Manny has since focused more on:

Respecting his mother’s independence
Focusing on his own family and political career
Allowing his mother the freedom to choose her happiness

A source close to the Pacquiao family told entertainment reporters:

“Of course, he wants what’s best for his mom. He may have had doubts before, but this relationship has stood the test of time. That counts for something.”

5. Mommy D’s Bold Love and the Cultural Conversation

Mommy Dionisia has never been one to follow societal norms. From her flamboyant birthday celebrations to her bold public statements, she’s always danced to the beat of her own drum.

Her decision to pursue a serious relationship—and now potentially marriage—with a man 20+ years younger challenges traditional Filipino expectations, especially for older women.

Filipino society, like many others, often views older men dating younger women as normal, but the reverse tends to spark criticism or ridicule.

In that context, Mommy D’s unapologetic embrace of her relationship is not just personal—it’s culturally significant.

6. The Role of Age in Love

The age gap between Dionisia and Michael Yamson is around 27 years, yet their relationship has lasted longer than many in showbiz.

Critics have questioned the intentions of Yamson, while supporters defend the relationship as genuine. Over the years, Yamson has stayed relatively low-profile, avoiding media controversies and supporting Dionisia in public events.

Their continued partnership suggests a level of mutual respect and stability not commonly seen in relationships that began as “controversial.”

7. Public Reactions: Mixed but Mellowing

When the relationship first made headlines in 2014, the backlash was strong. Memes, gossip, and judgment were everywhere. Many saw it as inappropriate or suspicious.

Fast forward to 2025, and the general public response appears more accepting. While some still express discomfort over the age difference, most netizens now cheer on Dionisia’s quest for happiness, often commenting:

“As long as they’re happy and love each other, who are we to judge?”

It appears that longevity, loyalty, and consistency have softened earlier criticism.

8. The Influence of Religion and Family Honor

One of the key reasons behind Manny’s earlier objection was rooted in religious values. As a devout Christian, he believes in the sanctity of marriage and the biblical implications of remarriage.

Additionally, the honor of the family name played a part. Being one of the most high-profile families in the Philippines, any move by a family member could become a national headline.

However, over time, it seems Manny has learned to separate personal values from his mother’s right to choose her path, signaling emotional growth and maturity in handling family affairs.

9. Media Ethics and Celebrity Families

This story also raises important questions about media responsibility when covering personal stories—especially those involving older women, age-gap relationships, or religious implications.

Many headlines from 2014 to 2025 have exaggerated, distorted, or sexualized the relationship for clicks. This sensationalism can affect both the public perception and the private peace of the individuals involved.

It’s a reminder that celebrities and their families are still human and deserve respect, even if they live in the public eye.

10. Final Thoughts: Love, Autonomy, and Letting Go

At 75 years old (as of 2025), Mommy Dionisia has lived a vibrant, often public life. If she chooses to remarry, it is a decision that belongs to her.

For Manny Pacquiao, a man known for discipline, faith, and family values, it appears he has made peace with his mother’s unconventional but enduring love story.

Whether he walks her down the aisle or simply stands in quiet support, what matters most is respecting her autonomy and happiness.

After all, love has no expiration date—and for Mommy D, this might just be the love story she’s waited for all her life.