In the world of reality TV, some stories stand out not just for their drama but for the heart and courage behind them. This is the story of DongPat—Dingdong Bahan and Patrick Ramirez—two former housemates from “Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11.”
The love story of DongPat began not with fireworks or love at first sight but with something much simpler: chicken wings. Patrick, who owned a restaurant at the time, would often send Dingdong food. "Alam ko interesado siya kasi minsan kahit ine-end ko na ‘yung convo, 'yung haha o simpleng smiley lang magre-react siya," Dingdong recalled with a smile.
Despite the blossoming attraction, their relationship was anything but smooth. For Dingdong, it was his first time to be in a same-sex relationship, and he was understandably nervous about letting Patrick into his life. Patrick, who had gone through similar struggles, was patient. "Dumaan din po ako sa stage niya so kaya sabi ko okay naiintindihan ko. Hindi kita pe-pressure pero 'wag mo ko igo-ghost," Patrick shared.
Despite their differences, one thing united them: the dream of entering the PBB house. Dingdong had been trying to join PBB since 2012, while Patrick, though initially hesitant, harbored the same dream. "When they finally auditioned together, it was a pivotal moment in their relationship. "At the end of the day, success ng isa, success naming dalawa," Patrick said, highlighting their deep partnership.
Their entry into the PBB house, however, came with an unexpected challenge: they had to hide their relationship. The secrecy took a toll on both of them, especially since their communication was limited. Misunderstandings became inevitable. Patrick shared a poignant memory: "Magkatabi kami ng kama noon tapos parang siyempre inisip ko baka mahalata nila so ang ginawa ko lumipat ako ng kama. Pagkalipat ko kinabukasan hindi na niya ko pinapansin."
Outside Bahay Ni Kuya, hiding was no stranger to them. Dingdong recounted the difficult times when Patrick was introduced as just a friend during family gatherings. For nearly six months, they kept their relationship under wraps, with only a few trusted friends knowing the truth. However, everything changed when they decided to share their relationship publicly, causing their story to go viral on social media.
Dingdong’s family took some time to understand and accept their relationship, a process that was significantly aided by their “PBB Gen 11” journey. "Nakita ng parents namin so iba ‘yung approach and iba ‘yung acceptance that time. Natakot pa ko that time," Dingdong said, describing the unique way the show helped bridge gaps in their personal lives. For Patrick, the experience was different. His family accepted him and Dingdong wholeheartedly, providing a vital source of support. "Talagang tinanggap nila ako nang buo, so nakatulong 'yon kasi siyempre parang family mo 'yon dapat sila ‘yung unang kasangga mo, unang shield mo sa lahat," Patrick reflected.
In front of the cameras, DongPat’s relationship stood as a testament to authenticity and love. As the first LGBTQ+ couple to openly enter the PBB house, they shattered barriers and set a new milestone in the show’s history.