The superstar comedian has long championed equality not just among all genders, but within the LGBQIA+ community.
Vice Ganda once again brought his signature wit and heartwarming support to the It’s Showtime stage during a recent episode of Tawag Ng Tanghalan. The comedian and host shared a memorable exchange with TNT All-Star Grand Resbak contestant Enzo Almario, blending fun banter with a meaningful message about self-acceptance and breaking outdated stereotypes.
Almario, who is coming back to the TNT stage, for its special season that gathers past non-winners for another shot at winning the title, took his chance of showing gratitude to Vice for being instrumental in his coming out journey. Almario recalled that before joining the singing competition, he had not come out of the closet yet. He acknowledged Vice for helping him introduce who he is, a gay man, noting how Vice’s unwavering support gave him the confidence to embrace his identity. That same confidence, he added, fueled his growth as a performer, pushing him to hone his craft and compete in other high-profile contests like Idol Philippines—where Vice also served as a judge.
But the mood shifted to playful hilarity when the topic turned to Almario’s good looks. Vice, never one to miss a comedic beat, zeroed in on a common remark that irks him: “Nakakabuwiset ‘yung sasabihing ‘sayang no, bakla siya, ang pogi nya!’ Yung ganon?” he quipped, mimicking the exasperation many queer men face when their attractiveness is framed as a “waste” due to their sexuality.
“Bakit sayang?” Vice pressed, challenging the notion head-on with his trademark flair.
Co-host Karylle jumped in, nodding in agreement. “Lumang kasabihan. Outdated na,” she declared, signaling that such sentiments belong in the past—or at least should.
Vice doubled down, adding, “Oo, lumang kasabihan na. Sayang bakla ka, ang pogi mo—ayy, nakakapangit ‘yun?” The audience erupted in laughter as he flipped the script, suggesting that being gay doesn’t detract from someone’s appeal.
In true Vice fashion, he took it a step further, cheekily implying that the real “ugliness” often lies with straight men who hurl such insults at attractive gay men like Almario. “Ikaw nga straight, chaka mo!” he said.
Vice’s playful yet pointed commentary underscored a recurring theme in his career: uplifting queer talent and dismantling outdated perceptions with humor and heart.
