Love Beyond Age: Dionisia Pacquiao’s Wedding Plans with a Younger Partner—Does Manny Approve?

Introduction

In the world of Filipino celebrity culture, there are few figures as recognizable—and endearing—as Dionisia “Mommy D” Pacquiao, the spirited and outspoken mother of boxing legend and former senator Manny Pacquiao. Over the years, she’s become a media darling in her own right, famous for her flamboyant outfits, spontaneous interviews, and even on-screen dance performances.

Recently, however, Mommy D made headlines for a more intimate reason: her plans to marry her longtime boyfriend, Michael Yamson, a man 26 years her junior. As news of the engagement broke, the internet buzzed with reactions—ranging from heartwarming congratulations to pointed questions.

Among them: Is Manny Pacquiao okay with this? Or is he still opposed to his mother’s young lover, as he reportedly was years ago?

Let’s dive deep into the timeline, public statements, family dynamics, and cultural themes surrounding this very public love story.

1. Who Is Michael Yamson?

Michael “Mike” Yamson is a soft-spoken, private individual who first became publicly known when he attended Mommy D’s 65th birthday celebration in 2014. At the time, his presence as her escort and partner raised eyebrows—not least because he was in his late 30s, and she was in her 60s.

Despite the age difference, their relationship endured. Over the years, Mike has been seen accompanying Mommy D to public events, taking care of her during personal appearances, and—most importantly—remaining by her side through various life chapters.

2. Over a Decade of Togetherness

While many assumed it was a fleeting fling, the couple proved their critics wrong. In 2025, they celebrated their 11th anniversary.

In a social media post, Mike shared a sweet photo montage titled “#11YearsTogether”, showing touching moments like him feeding Mommy D cake and the couple enjoying simple, loving time at home.

This long-term commitment silenced many doubters. In her recent interview, Mommy D proudly said:

“I already have a wedding ring. We’re planning our wedding now.”

3. Early Opposition from Manny Pacquiao

In 2014, shortly after the relationship became public, Manny Pacquiao reportedly disapproved of the relationship.

According to interviews at the time:

He was concerned about his mother’s Catholic faith, noting that she was still technically married to his father, and thus could not remarry under church law.
He also felt the relationship might be driven by less-than-noble motivations, fearing that someone so much younger might have ulterior intentions.

He even said in one interview:

“I told my mom to choose: either her faith or her bodily desires.”

4. Cultural and Religious Tension

Manny’s opposition wasn’t purely personal—it echoed deeper themes in Filipino culture:

Filial authority: In many Filipino households, especially religious ones, adult children are expected to guide or even “protect” their elders’ decisions.
Religious doctrine: In the predominantly Catholic Philippines, remarriage is often viewed as inappropriate if the first marriage hasn’t been annulled.
Stigma around age-gap relationships: Particularly when the woman is older, such relationships are often mocked or misunderstood.

But over the years, public sentiment—and possibly Manny’s own views—have evolved.

5. From Disapproval to Quiet Acceptance?

While Manny hasn’t made any public statements in 2025 regarding his mother’s wedding plans, past reports suggest that his stance has softened.

By 2017, Inquirer and other outlets reported that the Pacquiao siblings had accepted the relationship, having seen Mike’s sincerity and long-term commitment to their mother.

Even Dionisia herself said:

“He takes care of me. He loves me. We live in peace.”

Today, with 11 years behind them, it seems clear that the relationship isn’t opportunistic—it’s genuine, stable, and mutual.

6. The Engagement: Public Confirmation

In a candid 2025 interview with Bernadette Sembrano, both Mommy D and Mike confirmed their wedding plans.

Mike said: “Yes, we’re planning it.”
Mommy D said: “We’ve been together for 11 years. I already have a ring.”

The moment felt not only romantic but deeply empowering—a senior citizen publicly declaring her love and right to marry, regardless of social commentary.

7. Mike’s Vow: “Only Death Will Separate Us”

One quote that has stood out is Mike’s emotional promise:

“Only death can separate us. I will stay by your side no matter what.”

It’s a classic Filipino romantic vow, echoing “hanggang kamatayan,” which translates to “until death.” For many, that kind of commitment, especially coming from a much younger partner, adds credibility and romance to the story.

8. Mixed Reactions Online

As expected, the internet reacted swiftly:

Supporters said:

“Love is love! Go, Mommy D!”
“She deserves happiness. She’s given so much to her children.”
“Let her live her life.”

Critics argued:

“Too big an age gap.”
“Is he after her money?”
“What would the church say?”

However, the supportive comments vastly outnumbered the negative ones on platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).

9. Age Gap and Stereotypes

In many parts of the world, age-gap relationships—particularly involving older women—are unfairly criticized.

While male celebrities dating younger women are often praised, women in similar situations are often shamed or ridiculed.

Mommy D’s story challenges these double standards. She’s wealthy, independent, emotionally mature, and has a partner who has stayed with her for over a decade. Why shouldn’t she be allowed to marry again?

10. Does Manny Approve Now?

Though Manny Pacquiao hasn’t publicly confirmed approval of the wedding, his silence in 2025—compared to his strong opposition in 2014—suggests a quiet acceptance.

Furthermore, as Mike has been present at many family gatherings over the years, and the couple has stayed together this long, it’s likely that Manny and his siblings now respect their mother’s choice.

Whether or not he attends the wedding remains to be seen—but his absence of objection speaks volumes.

Conclusion: A Love Story That Defied Time and Criticism

At nearly 75 years old, Dionisia Pacquiao is choosing love, stability, and personal happiness. And while critics may raise eyebrows, her love story with Mike Yamson shows that genuine connection doesn’t know age, timing, or social expectation.

From public scrutiny to private joy, the couple’s journey is not only inspiring but also a bold declaration of love on one’s own terms.

After all, if Manny Pacquiao—who’s known for his strict religious values—can come to accept his mother’s unconventional romance, perhaps we all can, too.