Vhong Navarro unintentionally put fellow host Vice Ganda on the spot after blurting out the alleged box-office earnings of the latter’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) 2025 entry ‘Call Me Mother’ during the live broadcast of ‘It’s Showtime’ on Monday, January 5.
During a casual on-air exchange, Vhong congratulated Vice by saying the film had already earned ₱300 million. Caught off guard, Vice immediately asked where the information came from, to which Vhong replied that he had read it online from ABS-CBN. Realizing the possible implications of the statement, Vice jokingly warned that they might get “technical” issues or even be summoned by authorities.
“‘Pag tayo na-technical dahil sa ’yo…” Vice said, prompting laughter from the studio audience. He later added, “’Pag tayo pinatawag ng MMDA…” in reference to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, which oversees the MMFF.
Vhong attempted to clarify the situation by repeatedly stating that he merely read the figure and was not officially announcing it. Vice was quick to distance himself from the remark, emphasizing on-air that the statement came solely from Vhong.
The moment drew laughter from viewers but also highlighted an existing MMFF policy. Beginning in 2025, the MMFF Executive Committee and participating producers agreed to prohibit the public announcement of individual box-office grosses and film rankings during the festival run. The policy aims to prevent a “bandwagon effect” and ensure equal exposure and support for all official entries.
Despite the slip, the hosts handled the situation humorously, with Vice continuing the show in good spirits. The incident quickly became a talking point online, with viewers amused by the hosts’ playful banter and awareness of MMFF regulations.
‘It’s Showtime’ continues to air weekdays on Kapamilya Channel and other partner platforms.
