Michael V on Kalyeserye's 'JoWaPao' trio: It's their time to shine

MANILA, Philippines  — Have you ever wondered why, despite being a known impersonator and parodist, Michael V has never been part of the Kalyeserye segment of GMA-7s noontime variety show "Eat Bulaga," which he occasionally co-hosts?

"Oo nga. Ako, wala talaga akong alam," the 45-year-old comedian said during the launch of his book "The Bubble Bible by Bitoy" on Sunday.

But Michael said he does not mind; he believes this moment is for Jose Manalo, Wally Bayola and Paolo Ballesteros, the three comedians who play various character in support of Alden Richards and Maine "Yaya Dub" Mendoza in the noontime show's popular Kalyeserye segment.

"I think, parang turn na ito nina Jose, Wally and Paolo. I think it’s their time to shine," he said, noting that even 'Eat Bulaga" pillar Joey de Leon is "giving way" to the Kalyeserye phenomenon.

"And ako, no different. ‘Ako, meron naman akong Bubble Gang, may Peputo Manaloto naman ako, bakit ‘di natin ibigay ito sa kanila?’ It’s their time to shine. Teritoryo nila ito," he further explained. He added that there is no sense of jealousy or competition within the show. "Yun ang napansin ko sa ‘Eat Bulaga,’ [walang inggitan]. Kaya masaya dun. Kaya gustong-gusto ko d’un."

Of course, Michael V (whose real name is Beethoven del Valle Bunagan) isn't closing doors to the idea of joining the ever-growing cast of characters in the Kalyeserye.

"If they need my help eventually, sa mga darating na panahon, sa tamang panahon, why not?" he said.

Michael spoke to Philstar.com and other members of the press to promote "The Bubble Bible by Bitoy," a book that collects jokes and gags from 12 of his most memorable and iconic characters he has played on GMA-7's long-running gag show "Bubble Gang."

He initially wanted to write an autobiography but was discouraged from the idea because, they say, he is too young. Instead, he did "The Bubble Bible" with Summit Media.

"Someone told me that once in their life one should build a family, plant a tree and write a book," Michael said, citing the old adage. "Sineryoso ko lang masyado yung write a book." "The Bubble Bible by Bitoy" is available in bookstores and magazine stands nationwide for P250.