Vic Sotto, Pauleen Luna & Maine Mendoza Bring Joy in Dabarkads Christmas Special 🎄 (NH)

Once more with feeling, TVJ sings 'Eat Bulaga' | Philstar.com

Published: December 25, 2025

Introduction

This holiday season, the Philippines’ longest-running noontime show Eat Bulaga!, led by the iconic trio Tito, Vic, and Joey (TVJ), brought a heartwarming Christmas special that captivated families nationwide. Featuring fan-favorites Vic Sotto, Pauleen Luna, and Maine Mendoza, the episode celebrated family, camaraderie, and the festive spirit, blending humor, touching stories, and vibrant performances into a truly memorable broadcast.

For decades, Eat Bulaga! has been a staple of Filipino entertainment, but the Dabarkads Family Special Christmas Episode demonstrated how the program continues to evolve while keeping its core values: laughter, community, and togetherness.

1. Overview of the Special Episode

The Christmas episode, aired on December 24, 2025, featured the Dabarkads’ signature blend of comedy, music, and heartwarming narratives. The show opened with a colorful stage, Christmas decorations, and a medley of holiday songs performed by the cast.

Producers aimed to create an episode that honored Filipino family traditions, while also encouraging viewers to cherish their loved ones, especially in a season marked by both joy and reflection.

2. TVJ’s Christmas Message to the Nation

Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon delivered a heartfelt message emphasizing gratitude, resilience, and unity. TVJ encouraged viewers to celebrate the holiday safely and to remember the importance of family bonds and community support.

Vic Sotto highlighted how the Dabarkads have grown together as a “second family” over decades, sharing laughs and life lessons with viewers.

3. Vic Sotto and Pauleen Luna: Family Dynamics on Air

Vic Sotto and Pauleen Luna, both staples of Eat Bulaga!, showcased their endearing rapport, reflecting real-life family dynamics. Their on-screen interactions combined humor with genuine warmth, resonating with viewers who see a reflection of their own family experiences in the Dabarkads’ chemistry.

Segments included playful games, interactive skits, and candid conversations about parenting, love, and the meaning of Christmas.

4. Maine Mendoza’s Special Performance

Maine Mendoza brought a fresh energy to the special with a musical performance that delighted audiences. Her rendition of classic Filipino and international Christmas songs demonstrated her versatility as a performer and highlighted the show’s commitment to featuring talent that resonates with multiple generations.

Her presence also bridged the gap between long-time Dabarkads and the younger audience, ensuring the show’s continued relevance.

5. Games and Fun Segments for Families

As is tradition, the episode included interactive games designed to involve both the studio audience and viewers at home. These games promoted teamwork, laughter, and family bonding, such as:

Christmas trivia competitions
Fun challenges with the Dabarkads cast
Prize giveaways that brought joy to deserving families

These segments reflected Eat Bulaga!’s enduring mission to entertain while fostering positive values.

6. Heartwarming Stories of Everyday Heroes

The special also highlighted stories of everyday Filipino heroes—teachers, caregivers, and volunteers—who exemplify kindness and selflessness. These segments were interwoven with live interviews, pre-recorded features, and surprise visits, reinforcing the true spirit of Christmas: generosity, empathy, and hope.

7. Celebrity Guests and Star-studded Moments

Beyond the Dabarkads, the episode featured appearances from special celebrity guests, including notable Filipino actors and musicians. These moments added star power while maintaining the show’s focus on community and celebration rather than mere spectacle.

Celebrity participation included joint performances, skits, and interactive games that enhanced the festive atmosphere.

8. Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Behind the cameras, producers, directors, and crew worked tirelessly to ensure a seamless broadcast. According to staff interviews:

The stage was decorated with elaborate Christmas themes, combining traditional Filipino motifs with modern lighting.
Cast rehearsals emphasized timing, improvisation, and heartfelt delivery.
Safety protocols were strictly followed to ensure a safe filming environment during the pandemic-era adjustments.

These preparations highlight the professionalism and dedication that have kept Eat Bulaga! on air for decades.

9. Audience Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Viewers expressed their appreciation on social media, noting how the episode:

Evoked nostalgia for long-time fans
Showcased family-friendly entertainment
Highlighted acts of kindness and community spirit

Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok were abuzz with hashtags like #EatBulagaChristmas and #DabarkadsFamilySpecial, demonstrating the episode’s widespread cultural impact.

10. Conclusion: A Timeless Holiday Tradition

The TVJ Eat Bulaga Dabarkads Family Special Christmas Episode successfully blended laughter, music, heartwarming stories, and festive cheer into a broadcast that resonates across generations. Vic Sotto, Pauleen Luna, Maine Mendoza, and the entire Dabarkads cast reinforced the importance of family, kindness, and community in the modern Filipino household.

By staying true to its values while evolving to meet contemporary expectations, Eat Bulaga! continues to be a beloved Filipino holiday tradition, reminding audiences that amidst challenges, the spirit of Christmas can shine brightly through shared joy and togetherness.