Vice Ganda’s Jet Ski Holiday Joke Sparks Controversy
Comedian and host Vice Ganda recently faced criticism over his “jet ski holiday” joke, which referenced promises made by former President Rodrigo Duterte. The comedian delivered the parody during his two-day concert with Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez on August 8, drawing mixed reactions from the public.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro defended Vice Ganda, emphasizing that the joke originated from Duterte’s own statements. “This is not a made-up story or a joke. This came from former President Duterte himself, so don’t be offended, DDS,” Castro said, referring to Duterte’s staunch supporters.
Concert Performance Highlights Political Satire
The show opened with Regine Velasquez singing the viral line, “Darling, hold my hand,” before Vice Ganda appeared onstage in bright pink attire, backed by dancers holding a banner that read “Jet ski holiday.” He humorously described an imaginary trip from Manila to the West Philippine Sea, complete with “unlimited water bombing from Chinese vessels” and a “free trip to The Hague by the ICC.”
Vice Ganda’s parody poked fun at Duterte’s 2016 campaign promise to ride a jet ski to the Spratly Islands and plant the Philippine flag. However, some netizens felt the comedian had crossed a line by mocking a sensitive national issue.
Defense and Criticism from Political Figures
Castro challenged critics by pointing out real incidents, such as China’s use of water cannons against the Philippine Coast Guard. She questioned, “Who is really rude? Who uses foul language? Who insults Filipinos?” highlighting the irony in the backlash against Vice Ganda.
She also referenced a video of Vice President Sara Duterte speaking at a rally in The Hague, where she criticized President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for not continuing her father’s legacy. Castro remarked, “You, DDS, VP Sara, former President Duterte, the Dutertes—you insult the president, and you call yourselves decent? Then Vice Ganda uses a parody based on what the former president said, and you get upset.”
Meanwhile, former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque also weighed in, condemning Vice Ganda’s joke. In a social media video, Roque said, “You know us Filipinos—when someone is already down, we don’t kick them, Vice Ganda. But what you did was different. Tatay Digong is already on the ground, already imprisoned, 80 years old, probably going to die in jail, and you keep kicking him.” He added that Duterte’s supporters are unhappy with the comedian’s actions.
Public Reaction Divided on Political Humor
The joke has sparked a debate on the limits of political satire in the Philippines. Some community members applaud Vice Ganda for using humor to highlight political realities, while others believe it disrespects national leaders and sensitive issues.
As political tensions persist, Vice Ganda’s jet ski holiday joke remains a focal point of discussion about freedom of expression and respect for public figures.
For more news and updates on Vice Ganda, visit Filipinokami.com.
