In a twist that has taken fans and the public by surprise, Jimuel Pacquiao, the eldest son of boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, has gone public with his relationship—introducing a girlfriend who was previously the subject of controversy within the Pacquiao family.

During a recent high-profile event in Makati, Jimuel appeared hand-in-hand with a striking young woman who was quickly identified as his rumored girlfriend. But what stunned everyone was not just her beauty—it was the fact that she had reportedly been previously disapproved of by Jimuel’s family, including his famous father.

According to inside sources, the relationship had been kept mostly private for several months due to what some described as “family concerns.” Allegedly, members of the Pacquiao family, particularly Jimuel’s mother, Jinkee, had reservations about the young woman’s background, lifestyle, and intentions. Manny Pacquiao himself was said to be neutral at first, but grew skeptical as rumors about the relationship started to circulate online.

Yet despite the pressure, Jimuel stood firm. He made it clear to close friends and family that he believed in the authenticity of the relationship and that he was ready to defend it—even if it meant going against the family’s expectations.

“Jimuel loves her. He told his parents that this is his choice and he wants them to respect it,” one insider revealed. “He’s not just doing this for show—he’s serious.”

The defining moment came when Jimuel publicly introduced his girlfriend at the event. Standing confidently by her side, he addressed the press briefly, thanking everyone for their support and asking for privacy as they navigate their relationship together.

What shocked the media and fans even more was Manny Pacquiao’s reaction. Instead of outright disapproval, the boxing icon was seen smiling politely and even exchanging a few words with his son’s partner. Although sources claim Manny was caught off guard, he reportedly told Jimuel afterward: “If she makes you happy and you’re sure about her, then that’s what matters.”

Social media exploded following the revelation. Photos and clips from the event circulated rapidly, with fans and netizens sharing mixed reactions. While some praised Jimuel for “standing up for love,” others speculated about the tension that may still linger behind closed doors.

Hashtags like #JimuelInLove, #PacquiaoFamilyDrama, and #SupportLove trended on X (formerly Twitter), as netizens debated whether Jimuel did the right thing by publicly opposing his family’s earlier disapproval.

Meanwhile, Jimuel’s girlfriend has remained low-key, avoiding interviews and social media attention. However, sources close to her describe her as “kind-hearted, respectful, and deeply in love with Jimuel.”

As for the Pacquiao family, there has been no official statement. But based on Manny’s brief comment and his composed presence at the event, some believe the family might be warming up to Jimuel’s decision.

This isn’t the first time Jimuel’s relationships have drawn public scrutiny, but it may be the most significant. This time, he’s clearly not backing down—and it seems love, at least for now, has the upper hand.

Whether this romance leads to something long-term or simply sparks more headlines, one thing is certain: Jimuel Pacquiao is no longer living in the shadow of his last name—he’s carving his own path, in love and in life.