In a heartfelt moment that left both fans and cast members emotional, Tito Sotto officially bid farewell to ‘Eat Bulaga’ during a special episode on Monday, February 12.
The segment ‘The Clones: Ka-Voice of the Stars’ was dedicated entirely to honoring the former Senate President, who served as a pillar of the noontime show for decades.
Instead of the usual contestants, Joey de Leon and Jose Manalo took the spotlight to perform musical tributes for Tito Sotto. Joey impersonated Elvis Presley and serenaded his friend with ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love,’ while Jose, dressed in a red cap and a ‘Sotto Senator’ shirt, mimicked Johnny Mathis and The Platters—two of Sotto’s favorite acts.
Sotto himself performed a touching rendition of ‘Through The Years,’ a symbolic goodbye that resonated with everyone present. As he sang, he was joined on stage by his brother Vic Sotto and close friend Joey de Leon. Soon after, the entire Dabarkads family, including Ryan Agoncillo, Maine Mendoza, Carren Eistrup, Miles Ocampo, Paolo Ballesteros, Allan K, Wally Bayola, and Jose Manalo, joined in for an emotional finale.
Tears flowed as the Dabarkads expressed their gratitude and well-wishes to Tito Sotto, with each host sharing personal messages.
The hosts also pledged their full support for Sotto’s senatorial campaign in the upcoming elections. Allan K revealed his unwavering loyalty, saying that during every election, he writes only one name on his ballot for Senator: Tito Sotto.
“Iisa lang ang isinusulat ko—Tito Sotto lang!” Allan K exclaimed.
Among the attendees was Sotto’s daughter, Apple Sotto, who watched the tribute live from TV5’s studio. Loyal ‘Eat Bulaga’ fans took to social media to express their love and support for the iconic TVJ trio—Tito, Vic, and Joey—who have been at the helm of the show for decades.
Before the special episode concluded, Tito Sotto reassured fans that his departure from the show was temporary.
“Babalik agad ako sa TVJ noontime show after ng eleksyon,” he promised.
