MANILA, Philippines — Two of Philippine entertainment's biggest comedy stars are finally heading to the big screen together.
The longtime noontime television rivals officially announced on Sunday that they will headline "The Greatest Showdown," a comedy directed by Jun Robles Lana. The announcement was made during a launch event at Gateway Mall, where the two stars appeared before fans to unveil the project.
The film is a collaboration among ABS-CBN Studios, Star Cinema, The IdeaFirst Company, M-Zet Productions and APT Entertainment. It is scheduled for an exclusive theatrical release in 2026, although the producers have yet to announce a release date or confirm whether it will be an entry to this year's Metro Manila Film Festival.
In announcing the film on social media, Star Cinema described the project as "a movie event that brings everyone together through laughter."
Addressing the crowd, Vice Ganda said the collaboration had been years in the making.
"Like me, I know all of you have been waiting for this moment. This is something that will only happen once, and it's something we've wanted to happen for a long time. Now, our paths have finally crossed," Vice said.
The comedian also assured fans that the partnership would extend to the silver screen.
"This won't be the first and last time you'll see us together because you'll be watching us in one movie," Vice added.
Sotto thanked supporters from both camps as he introduced the surprise project.
"We have a surprise just for all of you. Thank you to all the Dabarkads and all the Madlang People. This is our gift to you," he said.
He added that their partnership aims to bring joy to Filipino audiences.
"That's why we need to smile. We need to brighten our aura—just as beautiful as Vice Ganda's. We need to join forces to bring the happiness that Filipinos need," Sotto said.
Lana reunites with Vice Ganda after directing and co-writing the comedian's previous films "Call Me Mother" and "And the Breadwinner Is...."
Rumors of a collaboration between Vice Ganda and Sotto had circulated in recent days after the two began teasing fans on "It's Showtime" and "Eat Bulaga!."