Vice Ganda touchingly responds to Maris Racal’s on-air apology: ‘Mas mahalaga ka kaysa sa pelikula’
Off-camera, Vice Ganda is known as a loyal and supportive friend, always bringing warmth and humor to those around them. A lot of his friends have shared their personal stories of being mentored, guided, or assisted by Vice in different ways. This was evident once again during a recent episode of It’s Showtime, where the comedian’s signature playful teasing paved the way for a lighthearted yet sincere moment between Vice and actress Maris Racal.
Weeks after the release of And the Breadwinner Is…, a 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry, Racal finally had the chance to express her regrets for missing the film’s promotional activities. She took the opportunity during the “Hide and Sing” segment of It’s Showtime on February 5, where Vice Ganda humorously called her out in front of the live audience.
As Racal shared her thoughts on one of the contestants, Vice Ganda, in their usual playful tone, interjected:
“Buneng, huwag kang nakikisama sa usapin ng matatanda, Buneng! Nasaan ang lipstick mo, Buneng? Sali ka nang sali sa usapin ng matatanda.”
The nickname “Buneng” was a reference to Racal’s character in the film. Leaning into the joke, Racal quipped, “Sorry, matanda ka nga.”
Seizing the moment, she then turned serious and addressed Vice Ganda directly, saying, “Parang gusto ko nang magsalita, Ate. Ate, sorry hindi ako nakapag-promote.”
Vice Ganda simply laughed, diffusing the moment with their signature humor. He then responded, “Mas mahalaga ka kaysa doon sa pelikula.” Later, he added, “Mas mahalaga ka kaysa kung saan man at kung ano pa man. I love you, Buneng!” Racal replied, “I love you, Meme!”
Racal and her onscreen partner Anthony Jennings, known collectively as MaThon, had been noticeably absent from most of the film’s promotions, including its media conference, premiere night, MMFF Parade of Stars, and the MMFF Gabi ng Parangal. Their absence coincided with a controversy involving leaked private conversations between Jennings and his non-showbiz ex-girlfriend, Jamela Villanueva, which sparked online discussions about their rumored relationship. Despite the situation, Vice Ganda had nothing but praise for the two young actors, acknowledging their undeniable chemistry and talent.
Through all the ups and downs, one thing remains clear—Vice Ganda’s unwavering support for friends, both on and off the screen.
