In a triumphant celebration of talent and representation, Filipino entertainment icon Vice Ganda was once again hailed as a “Box Office Hero” during the 9th edition of The Eddys.

This prestigious recognition highlights the immense success of the 2025 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) blockbuster, Call Me Mother, which further cemented Vice Ganda’s status as a powerhouse in the industry.

Beyond the glitz of the award, the evening was defined by a moment of profound solidarity.

Vice Ganda’s heartfelt acceptance speech served as a powerful tribute, shifting the spotlight from individual achievement to collective progress within the LGBTQ+ community.

A Night of Recognition and Solidarity

The 9th edition of The Eddys proved to be a landmark event for Philippine cinema, particularly for its acknowledgment of artists who command both commercial success and cultural influence.

Vice Ganda’s win for Call Me Mother is a testament to the audience’s enduring love for the performer’s brand of humor and storytelling.

However, the highlight of the night occurred when Vice Ganda stepped onto the stage to accept the award.

Rather than focusing solely on the box office numbers, the star used the platform to honor those who have paved the way and those who are currently shaping the future of Philippine entertainment.

Dedicating the Win to the LGBTQ+ Community

Vice Ganda explicitly dedicated the Box Office Hero recognition to fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community.

The star highlighted the contributions of several prominent personalities, including:

• Paolo Ballesteros

• KaladKaren

• John Lapus

• Esnyr

• Queen Dura

• Mimiyuuuh

By mentioning these specific creators, Vice Ganda acknowledged the diverse ways the LGBTQ+ community is influencing modern media—from television and film to digital content and drag performance.

The speech was a call to recognize the hard work and artistry of all LGBTQ+ content creators and drag queens who continue to “make their mark” in an often challenging industry.

Why This Moment Matters

The public’s reaction to the speech was overwhelmingly positive.

Fans and industry peers celebrated Vice Ganda not just for adding another trophy to an already impressive collection, but for the act of “lifting others up”.

In the Philippine entertainment landscape, the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals has seen a significant shift over the past decade.

Vice Ganda’s dedication serves as an acknowledgment of this evolution, validating the contributions of queer artists and ensuring that their presence is seen as vital, rather than just supplemental, to the success of mainstream media.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

To help you understand the significance of this event, here are some commonly asked questions:

Q: What award did Vice Ganda receive at the 9th Eddys? A: Vice Ganda was recognized as a “Box Office Hero” at the 9th edition of The Eddys.

Q: Which movie contributed to Vice Ganda’s win? A: The award honored the success of the 2025 MMFF blockbuster, Call Me Mother.

Q: Who did Vice Ganda mention in the acceptance speech? A: Vice Ganda dedicated the award to several individuals including Paolo Ballesteros, KaladKaren, John Lapus, Esnyr, Queen Dura, and Mimiyuuuh, as well as the broader community of LGBTQ+ content creators and drag queens.

Q: Why was the speech well-received by fans? A: Fans praised the speech because it celebrated Vice Ganda’s achievement while simultaneously recognizing the growing visibility and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community in Philippine entertainment.

Conclusion

Vice Ganda’s recognition at the 9th Eddys is more than just an award for a successful film; it is a reflection of a changing cultural narrative.

By using a platform built on commercial success to champion diversity and representation, Vice Ganda has reaffirmed their role as not only an entertainer but an advocate for the community.

As the Philippine entertainment industry continues to evolve, moments like this—where stars acknowledge the collective effort of their peers—remind us that success is sweetest when it is shared.

Vice Ganda’s “unkabogable” career continues to set a high bar, not only in box office metrics but in fostering a more inclusive space for all.