At 70, seasoned actor and TV host Vic Sotto continues to balance a thriving career, family life, and the lessons learned from fatherhood. In a candid interview with Lifestyle, Sotto shared insights on being a father to children across generations, his enduring marriage with Pauleen Luna, and his outlook on life.
Fatherhood Then and Now
Sotto admitted he was an absentee father to his older children—Danica and Oyo (with Dina Bonnevie), Vico (with Connie Reyes), and Paulina (with Angela Luz)—crediting their mothers for shaping their character.
“They didn’t grow up with me. That’s the sad part about being an absentee dad,” Sotto confessed. “Now that they’re older, I try to make time for them at least once a week—visiting them, having dinner, or watching a basketball game.”
He added that he makes up for his earlier absence by being a good provider.
With his younger children, Tali, 7, and Mochi, 1, from his marriage to Pauleen Luna, Sotto said he’s more present. “I got to witness Tali’s milestones because it happened during the pandemic when I wasn’t working. I heard her first words, saw her first steps, and enjoyed time with her. I’m doing the same with Mochi now.”
Life with Pauleen
Sotto, married to Luna since 2016, shared their secret to a harmonious relationship. “Open communication. No secrets. If there’s something to discuss, we talk about it immediately,” he said, adding with a laugh, “And we don’t fight over selfies—she handles that!”
This month, the couple celebrates their ninth wedding anniversary. While they initially planned to attend the 2nd Manila International Film Festival in Los Angeles, the event was canceled due to wildfires in California. Sotto’s film The Kingdom, however, will still screen in other countries, including Canada, Singapore, and Italy.
A New Challenge in Acting
Known for his comedic roles, Sotto took on a dramatic turn in The Kingdom, directed by Mike Tuviera. Starring alongside Piolo Pascual, Sotto described the project as a “game changer.”
“When it was offered, I liked the story immediately. I said, ‘If Piolo says yes, I’m game!’” Sotto recalled. He watched the film’s premiere with his daughter Tali, who cried during emotional scenes. “I had to explain that the blood wasn’t real—it was strawberry syrup!”
Looking Ahead
Sotto revealed plans for a streaming series and preparations for Eat Bulaga’s 50th anniversary. “Five decades of entertaining Pinoys—that’s hard to beat,” he said proudly.
At 70, Sotto stays active and healthy, avoiding sugary foods and maintenance medicine. “I stopped smoking years ago. I’m into salty food—maalat pwede pa—but I stay mindful of my health.”
On Legal Issues
Sotto declined to comment on the court case involving filmmaker Darryl Yap, citing a gag order. However, he shared his outlook: “I have a clean conscience, so I’m not worried. God doesn’t give us problems we can’t handle.”
Surrounded by the support of his wife, children, and friends, Sotto continues to lead a life marked by gratitude and resilience.