Vice Ganda’s Jetski Holiday Skit Draws Political Attention
Akbayan party-list Rep. Percival Cendaña emphasized that laughter is not just the best medicine but can also serve as a powerful wake-up call, especially after television host Vice Ganda’s viral “jetski holiday” skit during a recent concert. The four-word keyphrase “jetski holiday skit” was central to the performance, which cleverly combined humor with political commentary.
During the August 8 concert with Regine Velasquez, Vice Ganda performed a skit inspired by Jess Glynne’s song “Hold My Hand,” which has been widely parodied in memes related to the Jet2 Holiday advertisements. However, instead of the usual Jet2 Holiday, the phrase was replaced by “jetski holiday,” a direct nod to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 2016 campaign promise to sail to the West Philippine Sea by jetski as a symbol of resistance against Chinese incursions.
Political Satire Meets Public Reaction
In his statement, Cendaña remarked, “Speaking truth to power is most potent when it makes people laugh. This means the message really got through. Laughter is not only the best medicine, it is also the best wake-up call.” He further expressed support for Vice Ganda despite calls to declare the comedian persona non grata in Davao City, Duterte’s stronghold. “And if ever you are declared persona non grata, that’s okay. Because in our hearts, Meme, you are a wonderful person,” he added.
These calls for a persona non grata declaration emerged after Vice Ganda’s skit also mocked Duterte’s detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. The comedian quipped, “Nothing beats a jet ski holiday, right now from Manila to the West Philippine Sea via jetski. Get unlimited water bombing from Chinese vessels and a free trip to The Hague by the ICC. Promo applies to DDS (diehard Duterte supporters) only. ‘Pinklawans’ and ‘BBMs’ are prohibited.”
Mixed Public Responses to the Skit
The skit received mixed reactions online. Many praised Velasquez and Vice Ganda for their bold political humor and for highlighting the issue of the West Philippine Sea (WPS). However, some defended Duterte, standing by his legacy and criticizing the satire. Cendaña acknowledged the support by saying, “Long live, Meme Vice! Thank you for making us laugh while opening our minds and standing firm on your beliefs.”
Duterte’s Jetski Promise and Its Aftermath
During the 2016 presidential debates, Duterte was asked about China’s ongoing harassment of Filipino fishermen within the country’s exclusive economic zone. He responded that he would first negotiate with China but, if talks failed, he would ask the Navy to escort him to the nearest boundary over the Spratlys, where he would ride a jetski, plant the Philippine flag, and assert the country’s sovereignty.
However, in May 2021, Duterte admitted that the jetski promise was a “pure campaign joke,” calling those who believed it “stupid.” He clarified that it was political bravado meant for the election season. In the same month, he denied making any specific promises about the West Philippine Sea during his campaign.
Legal Troubles and Human Rights Concerns
Currently detained in The Hague, Duterte faces an ICC arrest warrant related to allegations of crimes against humanity tied to his controversial war on drugs. On March 11, after returning from Hong Kong, local authorities prevented him from leaving Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 to assist the ICC’s enforcement of the order.
During Duterte’s administration, official figures report over 6,250 deaths in legitimate anti-drug operations. However, human rights groups estimate the number could range from 12,000 to 30,000. Activists have challenged government narratives, citing cases like the 2017 killing of 17-year-old Kian delos Santos, who was shot despite not being the original target of the police operation. Footage showed him pleading for his life before being fatally shot, raising serious concerns about the conduct of law enforcement.
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