Jose Manalo Breaks His Silence on Eat Bulaga Controversy: “The Truth Needed to Come Out”

Manila, Philippines — July 13, 2025 — Veteran comedian and long-time television host Jose Manalo has finally spoken out about the recent controversies surrounding the variety show Eat Bulaga, which underwent a major network and talent reshuffling over the past year. In an exclusive interview with a local media outlet, Manalo addressed long-standing speculations and clarified his role, his relationship with his co-hosts, and the decisions that led to their highly publicized exit from the show.

“We stayed silent for a long time because we wanted to protect what Eat Bulaga stood for,” Manalo said. “But the truth had to come out — for the fans, and for our own peace.”

A Legacy Interrupted: What Happened to the Original Eat Bulaga?

The iconic noontime show Eat Bulaga, once the longest-running television program in the country, faced an unprecedented split in 2023 when its original hosts — including Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, Joey de Leon (TVJ), and core members like Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola, and Paolo Ballesteros — departed from their production company, TAPE Inc.

The move came after months of rumored internal disagreements related to creative direction, financial management, and contractual arrangements. As the original cast exited, they launched a new noontime show under a different network, while TAPE Inc. continued producing a new version of Eat Bulaga with a new set of hosts.

Jose Manalo’s Side of the Story

Jose Manalo, often seen as the comic glue of the trio Jose-Wally-Paolo, remained quiet during the early months of the controversy. In his interview, he emphasized that their decision was not made out of ego or rebellion.

“We owe our careers to the show. But when decisions are made that no longer reflect what Eat Bulaga truly is — the chemistry, the spontaneity, the trust — then it becomes difficult to pretend nothing has changed.”

He explained that the separation was painful but necessary. Jose also highlighted that their loyalty was not to a brand name, but to the essence of the show: its spirit of laughter, honesty, and connection with the Filipino audience.

Relationship With Co-Hosts and Staff

When asked about his relationship with former co-hosts and production staff, Jose was firm but respectful.

“No bad blood. We worked with some amazing people. But there were management decisions that no longer aligned with our values. That’s all there is to it.”

He praised Tito, Vic, and Joey for being father figures in the industry and expressed gratitude to long-time fans who followed their transition to the new noontime program, now aired under TV5.

How Is Jose Doing Now?

Since the move, Jose has continued to co-host the rebranded show alongside Wally and Paolo, where they have brought back signature segments and created new ones. Ratings have remained competitive, and the trio’s energy has been well-received by viewers old and new.

Jose shared that the environment now feels lighter and more creative. He said the team is allowed to contribute more freely and that the connection with fans feels more “real” again.

“We just want to make people laugh. That’s our job. If we can do that while staying true to ourselves, that’s the best gift we can give.”

Industry Reaction and Public Sentiment

The entertainment community has largely supported the original hosts. Celebrities, writers, and even rival network stars have expressed admiration for the way the team handled the separation with dignity. Online, fans have continued to show unwavering support, often using hashtags related to the original cast and expressing nostalgia for the Eat Bulaga they grew up with.

Many praised Jose’s calm and respectful tone during the interview, noting that he chose not to attack anyone, but to simply explain and defend their collective decision.

Moving Forward: Will There Ever Be a Reunion?

When asked whether he sees a reunion with the original production company or the current Eat Bulaga brand, Jose smiled.

“Never say never. But for now, we’re exactly where we need to be — doing what we love, with people we trust.”

Related Articles for Further Reading:

TVJ’s Departure from TAPE Inc.: Timeline and Reactions
Paolo Ballesteros on Starting Fresh After Eat Bulaga Split
Wally Bayola Speaks Up: “Loyalty is Not About Contracts”
Behind the Rebranding: New Beginnings for Noontime Television
The Legacy of Eat Bulaga: Then and Now