Ryan Bang is every bit the romantic when it comes to his fiancée, Paola Huyong. The “It’s Showtime” host shared in a recent vlog how their love story began, and it’s as heartwarming as it is relatable.
A “Slow-Mo” First Encounter
The couple first met in May 2023 during a football game. Ryan recalls how time seemed to slow down when he saw Paola for the first time.
“First time kong nakita, pagpasok ko ng football field, parang nag-so-slowmo ka sakin,” Ryan said. He immediately told his assistant, Joyce, “Parang siya ‘yung magiging girlfriend ko.”
Joyce humorously replied, “Ang feeling mo naman, sir.”
From Football to First Date
Though they met a few more times on the field, the two initially didn’t interact much. But when Ryan discovered through Instagram that Paola owned Siesta Horchata Cafe, he made a point to visit. That visit marked the start of their conversations.
During one such talk, Ryan was surprised to learn that Paola was single. Paola, on the other hand, was clear about her criteria: she wanted a partner who shared her Christian faith.
“Ang sagot ko po diyan, nasa tiyan palang ako ng nanay ko Christian na ako,” Ryan quipped, sharing that his parents were on their way to church when his mom went into labor.
In June 2023, Ryan invited Paola to Vice Ganda’s concert, which became their first official date.
From Misunderstanding to “The One”
Despite their budding connection, Paola initially thought Ryan viewed her as just a friend. On a samgyupsal date, she even told him, “Ryan, you’re such a good friend.”
A shocked Ryan clarified his intentions, saying, “Anong pinagsasabi mong good friend? Hindi ako pupunta from Showtime, tapos pipick-upin pa kita dito sa traffic, tapos magiging good friend.”
With that misunderstanding resolved, Paola admitted she felt “really at peace” moving forward in their relationship.
The Turning Point
Later, Ryan experienced what he called a “sign” after his GMA Network contract signing. He discovered that the building where Paola’s cafe is located now also houses his restaurant, Paldo.
Shortly after, Ryan asked Paola to officially be his girlfriend. She said yes, and the couple announced their engagement in June 2024.
A Blossoming Partnership
Apart from hosting “It’s Showtime,” Ryan has had several milestones in his career, including hosting the 2023 Asia Artist Awards and appearing in “Bubble Gang.” Meanwhile, his relationship with Paola continues to inspire fans, proving that sometimes, love really does feel like a scene from a movie.