TV and movie icon Vic Sotto shared insights into his enduring career during the media launch of his latest endorsement for Santé Barley, held on January 14 at Luxent Hotel in Quezon City.
The veteran comedian and ‘Eat Bulaga!’ host was noticeably more open and talkative during the event, engaging the entertainment press with his thoughtful answers.
When asked how he has managed to stay relevant and maintain a positive image in the entertainment industry for decades, Vic credited his success to humility and integrity.
“Clean living lang. Huwag kang umapak ng ibang tao. Huwag kang mang-alila. Huwag kang maangas. Stay humble. Humility, for me, is a very important word. Huwag kang magyayabang. Relax ka lang sa buhay,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of faith in overcoming challenges and stress.
“Basta trust in God. With God on your side, wala ang mga stress na ‘yan. Kayang-kaya. Hindi ko pinapansin ‘yan. Kung ano man ang pagsubok, basta you trust God, tanggal lahat.”
Vic expressed his appreciation for the support he has received from his family, friends, and colleagues throughout his career.
“I’m very thankful that I have my family supporting me, my friends, and people from the business. Maraming salamat sa kanila,” he shared.
The actor also took a moment to reflect on the success of his 2024 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry ‘The Kingdom’, his first dramatic film role.
“Ninanamnam ko pa ‘yung pagtanggap sa akin ng mga manonood ng pelikulang Pilipino. Nu’ng una, parang kabado ako. Tatanggapin ba nila? Pero after viewing the film, sulit lahat ng pagod,” he said.
Vic admitted that the project pushed him physically and emotionally, as he had to spend long hours rehearsing his lines. He praised director Michael Tuviera and his co-stars Piolo Pascual, Sid Lucero, Cristine Reyes, and Sue Ramirez for their dedication and professionalism.
“Nakita ko kung gaano kaseryoso si Piolo, si Sid, si Cristine, at si Sue. They were giving it their all, so kailangan gano’n din ako,” he added.
Despite his long career, Vic remains passionate about his craft and open to trying new roles.
“Marami pa akong gustong gawin. I’m the type of person na there’s always room for improvement. I’ve tried doing a serious role, pero pwede pang sundan ng isa or maybe a serious role na may touch of comedy,” he said.
Santé, a global provider of organic health and wellness products, introduced Vic Sotto as one of its new brand ambassadors. His reputation for leading a healthy lifestyle and his enduring connection with audiences make him a perfect fit for the brand.
Vic’s career spans over four decades, including his long-running stint as a host of ‘Eat Bulaga!’ and starring roles in iconic comedy and fantasy films such as ‘Enteng ng Ina Mo’ and ‘Si Agimat at si Enteng Kabisote’. His role in ‘The Kingdom’ marked a significant departure from his comedic roots, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Although the libel case he filed against filmmaker Darryl Yap remains ongoing, Vic chose to remain composed, following a court-issued gag order. Instead, he focused on his gratitude and faith.
“Kung ano man ang estado ko ngayon, kung ano man ang narating ko, I always lift everything to God. Siya naman talaga ‘yung direktor natin. Siya ang lahat. Go with the flow,” he concluded.