At the dazzling 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival Gabi ng Parangal, Vice Ganda’s victory resonated like a thunderous applause: he clinched Best Actor for Call Me Mother. Overcome with emotion, the unkabogable diva held her trophy, her voice laden with genuine excitement. “Queer people can be outstanding actors,” she proclaimed, her words shattering years of invisibility in Philippine cinema. This wasn’t just an award; it was a groundbreaking moment wrapped in elegance.
A Speech That Moved Many
Vice’s acceptance speech was a moving blend of wit, depth, and tears. “Mas ine-expect kong hindi nakikita,” she admitted, revealing she had prepared for exclusion rather than recognition.Catch the heartfelt moment here. In jest, she mentioned the all-male panel (“puro lalaki yung jurors tapos may pari”), yet expressed her gratitude: “Nakita niyo po ako. Kinilala niyo po ako.” For a bakla, who has starred in hits but rarely received dramatic honors, this was nothing short of miraculous in 2025. “It’s about time,” she remarked, dedicating the win to her LGBTQIA+ community, producers ABS-CBN Star Cinema and Diva Films, and director Jun Robles Lana, who allowed her to portray a character reflecting queer experiences.
Honoring the Marginalized
Going even deeper, Vice shared her vision of motherhood, echoing her character Twinkle, a bold mother figure without the biological means. “Kaming mga bakla, maaaring hindi kami magdalang tao… pero nanay kami,” she expressed, her vulnerability making a powerful impact.Explore her full message to the queer community. Alongside stars like Nadine Lustre and Lucas Andalio, the movie challenged traditional notions of family, fear, and acceptance. She acknowledged her partner Ion Perez, her “soulmate,” sharing their dream of becoming parents amid the entertainment industry’s chaos.
Igniting a Visibility Revolution
But my friend, the celebration stirred discussions hotter than a summer day. Was this a pinnacle of progress or merely a symbolic victory? Social media buzzed: some celebrated it as a landmark for queer visibility, while others questioned if a single win could erase systemic biases.Vice herself reflected on these mixed emotions. Veteran voices recalled previous overlooks; new voices rejoiced in breaking barriers. Even her last-minute Gucci appearance sparked fashion debates.“Ako nga, at last,” she celebrated, a mantra for every young queer person with big dreams.
Vice Ganda didn’t just nab an award; she ignited a guiding light. In a country where bakla talent often shines behind comedy, this moment boldly declares: We are present, we are recognized, we are best. And dear friends, that’s the plot twist we’ve all been yearning for.
