MANILA, Philippines (The Adobo Chronicles, Manila Bureau) – In a shocking turn of events, Vice Ganda, the perennial superstar and box office king of the Philippine entertainment scene, has been conspicuously absent from this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF). 

Speculation is rife that his absence may finally pave the way for movies that don’t solely rely on wardrobe changes, slapstick humor, and a swarm of backup dancers. 

Some optimists suggest that without Vice Ganda’s trademark wigs, glitter, and melodramatic punchlines, audiences might actually notice that there’s more to Philippine cinema than gender-bending comedies. 

Critics, however, are concerned about the potential decline in sequins and glitter glue sales this festive season.

JAKE DON contributed to this report.