Actress Nadine Lustre has addressed online speculation surrounding her absence from several promotional activities for the Metro Manila Film Festival 2025 entry ‘Call Me Mother’, which stars Vice Ganda.
Lustre drew attention after she missed multiple mall shows and promotional events for the film, including the MMFF 2025 Parade of Stars in Makati City. Her absence prompted some netizens to speculate about a possible issue between her, Vice Ganda, and the film’s production.
In an interview with ABS-CBN, Lustre clarified that her absence was due to a personal health decision, and not because of any conflict.
“I had to take my yearly sabbatical, it’s very important for me to take care of my health and nagpaalam naman ako kay Ate Vice,” Lustre explained.
She added that she had already fulfilled promotional commitments before taking her leave.
“I’d like to thank Ate Vice but now that I’m back, bawi-bawi rin,” she said.
Vice Ganda also spoke about the film’s recent promotional activities. The cast was originally scheduled for an outdoor event in Marikina, which was canceled due to bad weather.
“Meron kaming dapat na ganap sa Marikina pero because of the weather, hindi matantsa eh outdoor siya kaya cancel, eh ayoko ng cancel, nag-isip kami ng ganap para makapaglako!” Vice said.
Instead of canceling entirely, the cast surprised shoppers by making unannounced appearances at three major malls in Quezon City. Lustre joined Vice Ganda, along with Esnyr, Brent Manalo, River Joseph, and Shuvee Etrata, as they handed out posters and posed for selfies with fans.