Vice Ganda opens up on going to therapy with Ion Perez

• Vice Ganda revealed that he and Ion Perez are undergoing regular therapy to cope with the emotional toll of “It’s Showtime’s” 12-day suspension in 2023

• The comedian shared that the suspension and public backlash deeply affected their mental health, with Ion feeling guilty and blaming himself for the controversy

• He also recounted a therapy session where their psychiatrist said Ion’s prayers were entirely about Vice’s well-being and never about himself

• Despite the challenges, Vice emphasized how the experience strengthened their bond and highlighted the depth of Ion’s love and devotion

Comedian and television host Vice Ganda revealed that he and his partner Ion Perez continue to undergo therapy as they cope with the emotional and psychological effects of the 12-day suspension of “It’s Showtime” in 2023, following the controversial “cake moment” that drew backlash and a ruling from the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).

In the latest episode of “KC’s After Hour” podcast hosted by veteran broadcaster Karmina Constantino, Vice shared how the incident deeply affected both their mental health and relationship, prompting them to seek regular psychiatric help.

“Nagte-therapy kasi kami. We regularly see a psychiatrist. Kasi ang dami naming pinagdaanan na pagsubok together, issues,” Vice said.

He recounted how the MTRCB suspension, which many perceived as a punishment for their display of affection on national TV, made them feel like criminals—even though they believed there was nothing wrong with what they did.

“Imagine mo ‘yung na-suspend ‘yung programa namin dahil sa ginawa namin. Na para sa amin hanggang ngayon ay wala kaming nakikita na mali sa ginawa namin. Tapos nagmukha kaming kriminal, tapos nagkaroon kami ng criminal case because of that.”

Vice questioned the stigma around their relationship, asking, “Anong mali sa pagmamahalan natin?” He pointed out that beyond the controversy, they were already grappling with multiple challenges, including the pandemic and ABS-CBN’s franchise loss.

Vice also shared a moving story from one of their therapy sessions, where he was told that Ion’s prayers were all about him.

“Kinuwento sa akin ng therapist, grabe ang pagmamahal sa iyo ni Ion. Sabi ko ‘bakit po?’ [Sabi niya,] ‘I asked him to write a prayer at ‘yung dasal niya puro sa iyo… Sana ‘wag akong magkakasakit, ‘wag akong magbago sa kanya, na ‘wag kang mawawala.’ Wala siyang dasal para sa sarili niya, puro tungkol sa ‘yo.’”

Vice revealed that Ion Perez carries a heavy burden of guilt, feeling responsible for the suspension and the public criticism, believing that their marriage and that single moment led to major career setbacks.

“Na parang kung hindi naman tayo mag-asawa, hindi naman tayo kakain ng cake, at kung hindi tayo kumain ng cake, hindi naman tayo sususpendihin… ‘Yung guilt, ang lala ng guilt niya.”

“It’s Showtime” served its 12-day suspension in October 2023, after the MTRCB ruled that the show violated broadcasting standards due to the now-infamous moment. The decision sparked widespread discussion about censorship, gender expression, and LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.

Despite the hardships, Vice and Ion continue to lean on each other. Vice said the experience has only strengthened their bond as a couple and highlighted the depth of Ion’s love and loyalty.

Vice Ganda is a well-known Filipino comedian, actor, host, and singer. He is widely recognized for his sharp wit, vibrant personality, and significant contributions to the Philippine entertainment industry. He began his career as a stand-up comedian in Manila's comedy bars. His major breakthrough came in 2009 when he became a regular host on ABS-CBN's noontime variety show, It's Showtime. Due to his charisma and comedic talent, he quickly rose to prominence in the showbiz world.

Recently, Vice Ganda became a topic of discussion on social media once again. "Meme" (Vice Ganda's nickname) was interviewed by Karmina Constantino-Torres on her channel. During the interview, Karmina asked Vice about Ion Perez and his "COC" (Certificate of Candidacy). Ion was remembered for withdrawing his "COC" in November 2024.

During the same interview with Karmina Constantino-Torres, the TV anchor and host asked "Meme" (Vice Ganda's nickname) about the topic of anger. According to Karmina, she asked, "Why weren't you able to get angry at the world given all that you went through?" Upon hearing the question, Vice Ganda gave a truly authentic response.

Source: KAMI.com.gh