For two decades, Anjo Yllana was a familiar face in Filipino homes—a comedian, actor, and beloved host on the legendary noontime show Eat Bulaga. His humor, charm, and energy made him part of a TV family that shaped generations of entertainment. But recently, Yllana shocked fans by launching a series of controversial statements and accusations against one of his former mentors and close friends, Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto.

In a string of online rants and vlogs, Yllana didn’t just criticize Sotto—he went as far as to make personal and political attacks that left many wondering: what went wrong? How did a once tight-knit bond between the Eat Bulaga family turn into public hostility?

From Friendship to Feud

Tito Sotto and Anjo Yllana weren’t just co-workers. For years, they shared laughter on screen, and Sotto, as one of the show’s pillars, was known to have helped many of his colleagues find their footing in showbiz. That’s why Yllana’s sudden change of tone—openly mocking, insulting, and even threatening to “expose” Sotto—has taken the public by surprise.

According to recent viral videos, Yllana accused Sotto of having personal issues involving relationships during their Eat Bulaga days—claims that many dismissed as baseless gossip. What’s more puzzling is how Yllana’s criticism has gone beyond the personal, turning into political attacks linked to his apparent alignment with the Duterte camp.

In one viral clip, Yllana declared, “I’m DDS now. I’ll run for senator under Vice President Sara Duterte.” That revelation seemed to confirm suspicions that his feud with Sotto was no longer just personal—it was political.

The Political Divide

Tito Sotto has long been associated with the current administration under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. He’s known for his pragmatic stance and his belief in continuity of governance. On the other hand, the so-called DDS (Diehard Duterte Supporters) have distanced themselves from the Marcos administration, often accusing it of corruption and incompetence.

Yllana, now identifying himself as DDS, has openly voiced his disdain for the Marcos government. He even described it as “the most corrupt administration” he has ever seen—strong words that many found reckless, especially given the ongoing investigations initiated by President Marcos himself.

His statements drew mixed reactions online. Supporters of the Duterte camp praised his boldness, while others accused him of opportunism—using political affiliations to stay relevant amid a fading showbiz career.

Selling Friendship for Views?

But beyond politics, Yllana’s critics say his tirades reek of desperation. Many fans who grew up watching him expressed sadness that someone once so respected could stoop to spreading rumors for attention.

A particularly painful revelation came when it was reported that Yllana allegedly sold a personal painting given to him by Joey de Leon—another Eat Bulaga icon. The painting, a clown portrait created and signed by de Leon himself, was said to be a heartfelt gift. For Yllana to sell it, fans said, symbolized how far he’s drifted from the friendships that once defined his career.

“It’s like he’s burning bridges one by one,” commented one longtime Eat Bulaga viewer. “If he has issues, he should settle them privately, not by humiliating the people who helped him.”

A Confused Crusade

In one of his vlogs, Yllana passionately declared, “I’m for the people. I’m not a tuta of any politician.” Yet moments later, he admitted to working under Senator Jinggoy Estrada—a sitting lawmaker and ally of the same Senate where Sotto once served.

Observers couldn’t help but point out the irony. How could someone criticize political loyalty while being employed by a politician himself? Even more baffling was his claim that Sotto’s support for the Marcos administration was the reason for their fallout.

Commentators noted that differing political beliefs shouldn’t destroy personal relationships. “It’s one thing to have opposing views,” one analyst said. “It’s another to turn that into a public smear campaign.”

Between Loyalty and Logic

The saga of Anjo Yllana and Tito Sotto has become a reflection of the country’s growing political divide—how friendships, even those built on decades of trust, can crumble under the weight of partisanship.

The entertainment industry, long known for its mix of glamour and gossip, has seen its share of public feuds. But this one hits differently because it involves personalities who once represented unity and laughter.

As the controversy rages, Sotto has mostly chosen to remain silent. Those close to him say he sees no point in engaging in a “circus” of accusations. “He’s focused on his work and family,” one insider shared. “He doesn’t need to dignify every rumor.”

The Bigger Picture

For all the noise surrounding Yllana’s newfound political identity, many believe his behavior speaks more about the personal struggles of an artist trying to stay relevant in the social media age. Gone are the days when one’s reputation was defined by television appearances. Today, viral clips and controversial statements are the new currency of fame.

Still, some hope that Yllana can find his way back—perhaps not to Eat Bulaga, but to a sense of humility and respect. The showbiz world, after all, thrives not on hate but on heart.

In the end, what makes this feud so heartbreaking is not the political disagreement, but the erosion of friendship between people who once made millions laugh together.

And for fans who grew up watching Eat Bulaga, it’s a sobering reminder that behind the smiles and laughter, even the brightest lights can dim when ego and politics get in the way.