Filipino businessman Dennis Valdes, the former husband of socialite and media personality Tessa Prieto, made headlines in 2026 after announcing his engagement to Trisha Gabrielle, also known as Trisha Guillermo. The news attracted widespread attention because of their significant age difference and the history surrounding Valdes’ previous marriage.
The engagement came years after the end of Valdes and Prieto’s long marriage, a relationship that was once considered one of the most recognized partnerships in Philippine high society.
Engagement News
Dennis Valdes and Trisha Gabrielle publicly confirmed their engagement in June 2026. The announcement quickly became a major topic among social circles and online communities.
Valdes, who is 63 years old, and Gabrielle, who is 29, have a 34-year age gap. Their relationship became a subject of discussion on platforms such as Reddit’s ChikaPH, where users debated the couple’s age difference and their personal history.
Despite public reactions, the couple continued moving forward with their plans after choosing to make their relationship official.
Trisha Gabrielle’s Career
Before becoming known publicly because of her relationship with Valdes, Trisha Gabrielle built a professional career within the corporate world.
She reportedly started as a marketing staff member before advancing into leadership roles. Over time, she became the General Manager of Aegle Wellness Center, a health and wellness company connected to Valdes’ business interests.
Her professional growth attracted attention because of her transition from an entry-level position to a management role within a business environment associated with her future fiancé.
Past Marriage
Before his engagement to Gabrielle, Dennis Valdes was married to Tessa Prieto for more than 26 years.
Prieto, a well-known Philippine socialite, fashion personality, and media figure, became widely recognized for her colorful style and public presence. Together, she and Valdes were considered a prominent couple in elite social circles.
Their long marriage eventually ended, with their legal annulment finalized in 2025.
Tessa Speaks Out
After Valdes’ engagement became public, Tessa Prieto addressed the emotional history behind their separation.
During a July 2026 appearance on the television program Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, Prieto shared her perspective on the breakdown of their marriage. She stated that infidelity was the reason their relationship collapsed and claimed that Valdes’ connection with Gabrielle began during the pandemic period.
Prieto said she discovered that Valdes was spending significant time with Gabrielle during the lockdowns, which became a painful chapter in their marriage.
Closure After Divorce
Although the end of her marriage was difficult, Prieto explained that the engagement announcement helped her find closure.
The completion of the annulment process in 2025 marked the legal conclusion of her relationship with Valdes. She has since focused on rebuilding her personal life and moving forward.
Rather than remaining connected to past controversies, Prieto has emphasized healing and finding happiness after the separation.
New Beginning
In 2026, Tessa Prieto revealed that she had found love again. She introduced her new partner, Irene Nubla, and shared that their meeting happened unexpectedly inside a church.
Prieto described the relationship as a positive new chapter in her life. Her decision to publicly share her happiness showed her willingness to embrace a fresh start after years of personal challenges.
Public Attention
The engagement of Dennis Valdes and Trisha Gabrielle attracted attention not only because of their age difference but also because of the connection to Valdes’ previous high-profile marriage.
In the Philippines, celebrity and socialite relationships often receive strong public interest, especially when they involve personalities from business, entertainment, and high society.
The couple’s story became a mixture of romance, controversy, and public discussion as people followed developments surrounding their engagement.
Moving Forward
Dennis Valdes and Trisha Gabrielle are now preparing for their future together, while Tessa Prieto continues her own journey after a major personal transition.
Their separate paths highlight how relationships can evolve after decades of shared history. While Valdes’ engagement created headlines, Prieto’s focus has shifted toward personal growth, family, and a renewed sense of happiness.
