Satire Sparks Controversy Over Duterte’s Campaign Promises
MANILA — The recent online harassment against Vice Ganda has ignited debate on the limits of satire, especially when it targets former President Rodrigo Duterte’s broken campaign promises. Local leaders and community members alike have defended the comedian, emphasizing that satire is a vital form of political commentary and free expression.
ACT Teachers Representative Antonio Tinio voiced his support for Vice Ganda, questioning why Duterte’s supporters are suddenly upset over satire when the former president himself has made far more offensive remarks in public. “Satire is a form of entertainment, but also a form of protest. Don’t they get that? The problem is that the Dutertes and their supporters are idiots. When they curse, threaten, or intimidate, they say it’s just hyperbole or a joke, but when it’s done to them, they’re foaming at the mouth,” Tinio said.
Vice Ganda’s Skit Highlights Unfulfilled Jet Ski Promise
During a recent joint concert with singer Regine Velasquez, Vice Ganda staged a provocative skit that referenced Duterte’s 2016 pledge to ride a jet ski to the Spratly Islands and plant a Philippine flag—a promise that was never fulfilled. The comedian appeared onstage with backup dancers holding a tarpaulin that read “Jet ski holiday.”
“Nothing beats a jet ski holiday, right now from Manila to the West Philippine Sea via jet ski. Get unlimited water bombing from Chinese vessels and a free trip to The Hague by the ICC (International Criminal Court). Promo applies to DDS (Diehard Duterte Supporters) only. Pinklawans and BBMs are prohibited. Huwag niyo akong subukan, mga pu****i** niyo,” Vice Ganda quipped, drawing both laughter and ire.
Backlash from Duterte Supporters and Officials
Since the skit aired, Duterte’s supporters have called for Vice Ganda to be declared persona non grata in Davao City, the former president’s political stronghold. Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque also criticized the comedian, accusing her of “kicking the former president when he’s already down.”
It is important to note that Duterte is presently detained at The Hague, awaiting trial at the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity related to his controversial war on drugs.
Defense of Satire as Political Expression
In response to the backlash, Tinio condemned coordinated efforts to pressure television networks and sponsors to drop Vice Ganda. He pointed out how Duterte’s camp has weaponized social media, employing influencers and content creators to silence dissent.
“We have witnessed how the Dutertes have weaponized social media, employing a core of influencers and content creators to silence critics and dissenting voices. The same people who defended Duterte’s death threats against journalists, his misogynistic remarks, and his violent language are now crying foul over a comedian’s satirical skit,” Tinio remarked.
He further warned against the rise of cancel culture used by authoritarian forces to suppress free expression. “We must not allow the culture of fear and intimidation that characterized the Duterte regime to continue silencing voices of dissent,” he added.
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