Vice Ganda reveals what winning feels like in latest interview with Metro.Style
We’ve come to know Vice Ganda as the effective and “unkabogable” comedian, dolled up in head-turning, quirky outfits and armed with rapid-fire funny punchlines in Tagalog. This time, however, the spotlight reveals a quieter, more contemplative side of the star.
In a stunning editorial for Metro.Style, Vice trades his usual flamboyance for muted tones and couture sophistication. Coupled with a deeply personal, predominantly English video interview, the feature offers a fresh perspective on the person behind the jokes.
2024 marked a pivotal moment for Vice Ganda’s career. His latest film in the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF 2024), And the Breadwinner Is…, combines humor and heartfelt drama to tell the story of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) navigating shattered dreams upon returning home. For Vice, it’s not just another movie—it’s what he refers to as “probably his best movie to date.”
The Heart of a Breadwinner
“I became a breadwinner by choice,” Vice reflects, revealing the origins of his personal connection to his latest role. “Fortunately, my parents were not the kind of parents who oblige their kids to suffice for the family. My parents were not like that.”

Photos courtesy of Metro.Style on Instagram and Youtube
Vice wears a coat and sheer top by Anthony Ramirez and boots by Balenciaga
Photography by Miguel Alomajan
Creative direction by Eugene David
Metro head: Christina N. Lopez
Editor-in-chief: Geolette Esguerra
Sittings editors: Grace Libero-Cruz and Randz Manucom
Fashion associate: Carla Buyo
Styling by Aaron Mangsat
Makeup by Emman Concepcion
Hairstyling by Buern Rodriguez
Set design by Arj Madz of Jagger Studios
Writer: Leah Puyat
Videography by PIF Creatives
____________
Vice’s mother, a solo parent from an early stage of their family life, was a major influence. “She was a solo parent… I have seen how much hard work she has done for the family. And I could see that she was not able to take care of herself,” Vice shares.
As his career flourished, Vice made a life-changing decision. “I talked to [my mom]… that I think it’s about time that she stops working and just enjoy whatever there is to enjoy. That was my gift to her because she’s been working all her life.”
This theme of sacrifice and family inspired the film’s story. Vice explains, “We brainstormed… it was a collaborative effort. I told them, why don’t we create a movie that is about us? What is our common denominator? I think the common denominator is our love for our family and the sacrifices we do for them.”
A Serious Step in Acting
And the Breadwinner Is… challenged Vice to step away from his usual over-the-top roles. “It’s about time that I take on a character that is really a real character, not a fantastical or larger-than-life character. A character that will resonate with a lot of people.”
The film’s dialogue also struck a personal chord. “The lines there in the movie, those are lines that I hear every now and then,” Vice admits. “As you grow up… you start to have dreams for yourself. And I felt like it’s not the place where I can reach these dreams.”
Working with an ensemble cast of award-winning actors, including Eugene Domingo, Joel Torre, and Malou de Guzman, pushed Vice out of his comfort zone. “I was so insecure… because everyone knows that they’re really good at drama,” he confesses. However, this insecurity became a source of motivation. “It fueled me to really make sure that I will prepare myself.”
One pivotal scene—a 15-minute, one-shot dramatic confrontation—tested his limits. “It has no comedy. I can’t ad-lib. We were all asked to stick to the script. It was challenging, but I am very happy because that was Direk Jun Lana’s most favorite scene.”
Finding a New Partner in Jun Lana
After the passing of director Wenn Deramas, Vice struggled to find a collaborator who truly understood them. “There was even a time that Star Cinema asked me if they could send me to New York to study directing,” Vice recalls.
Enter Jun Robles Lana, whose meticulous approach and genuine connection with Vice filled the void. “Oh my God, I found my new partner,” Vice says. “He really knows me as an actor, as a performer, as a comedian.” Their bond became one of mutual respect and creative alignment, allowing Vice to flourish on set.
What Winning Feels Like
For Vice Ganda, success is defined by gratitude. “Seriously, I was at the point that every day when I wake up, I feel happy. That was my winning moment,” they say. His joy extends beyond professional triumphs. “I have a successful relationship. I have someone beside me who loves me so dearly… I have a healthy mom who calls me every night before she goes to sleep.”
While his journey has been far from perfect, Vice finds comfort in his faith. “I have a God that saves me every day. I have a God that will make me win every day.”
The Best Version Yet
Looking back at the making of And the Breadwinner Is…, Vice feels immense pride. “This is my best movie because, aside from the Vice Ganda that they have seen in the past, they can still see the Vice Ganda that they love and so much more. This is a familiar but different Vice Ganda.”
As the film premieres in the Metro Manila Film Festival’s 50th year, Vice reflects on the significance of being part of a lineup with legendary actors like Vilma Santos and Aga Muhlach. “It’s flattering… The movies are all very promising.”
For the audience, Vice hopes the movie becomes a mirror to their own lives. “I have to show them their story on the screens,” he says.
With a career defined by laughter and resilience, Vice Ganda proves that even the brightest stars can shine differently when they embrace new depths.
WATCH: