‘Eat’s’ time to celebrate again

To commemorate its achievement as the “longest-running TV show” in the country, “Eat Bulaga!” launched a coffee table book last Thursday at Whitespace in Makati.

The show’s pillars—Tito, Vic and Joey, joined by cohosts (Allan K., Jimmy Santos, Anjo Yllana, Pia Guanio, Ryan Agoncillo, Toni Rose Gayda, Julia Clarete, Keempee de Leon, among others)—paid tribute to their Tape bosses Antonio P. Tuviera and Malou Choa-Fagar for their unwavering loyalty and friendship.

The title, “Eat Bulaga! Ang Unang Tatlong Dekada” was courtesy of Joey de Leon, who turned on the waterworks upon receiving his first copy of the book.

His son Jako de Leon designed the book, which was written by Butch Francisco. Joey himself contributed rare photographs that he took of his buddies Vic and Tito Sotto.

Decked like a museum with various photos from the three-decade existence of the popular noontime show, the venue was packed with industry bigwigs, led by director Bert de Leon, Regal producer Lily Monteverde and GMA 7 execs Felipe L. Gozon, Gilberto Duavit Jr., Wilma Galvante and Annette Gozon-Abrogar.

Of course, Ryan’s wife, Judy Ann Santos, and the late rapper FrancisM’s wife, Pia, and children Maxene, Elmo, Arkin and Clara celebrated with the “Eat” family, too.

Discovery Aiza Seguerra, backed by the Mandaluyong Children’s Choir, gave a rousing rendition of the show’s theme song.

The show’s past hosts Chiqui Hollman-Yulo, Lani Mercado, Richie D’Horsey and Ces Quesada graced the happy occasion as well.

“We’re now part of history,” said Bossing Vic.