A fiery exchange is unfolding in the public eye after former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque lashed out at comedian and TV host Vice Ganda over a controversial joke made during a recent concert. The punchline? None other than former President Rodrigo Duterte (FPRRD) — a man revered by millions and considered untouchable by his most loyal supporters.

During one of his high-energy live performances, Vice Ganda allegedly took a jab at FPRRD that didn’t sit well with many, especially those aligned with the Duterte camp. While the exact wording of the joke remains unconfirmed in official transcripts, videos circulating online show the comedian using suggestive language and facial expressions that audiences interpreted as disrespectful toward the former President.

As expected, the backlash came swiftly—and it was brutal.

Among the first to respond was Harry Roque, who did not mince words in defending Duterte’s honor. In an impassioned public statement, Roque accused Vice of crossing a line that should never be touched, especially when it comes to national leaders and those who have served the country.

“Comedy is not a license for cruelty,” Roque declared. “To mock and humiliate someone who has done so much for the nation is not only tasteless—it’s shameful. Vice Ganda should know better.”

Roque’s statement ignited a wave of online discourse, with Filipinos sharply divided. On one side, Duterte supporters echoed Roque’s sentiments, saying Vice Ganda went too far in his comedy and should be held accountable. They pointed out that there’s a difference between humor and humiliation, and what Vice did, in their view, was a blatant act of disrespect.

On the other hand, Vice Ganda’s fans—and advocates of free speech—came to his defense. They argued that satire has always been a part of entertainment, and public figures, especially former presidents, are fair game. “If politicians can dish it, they should be able to take it,” one netizen commented.

This isn’t the first time Vice Ganda has found himself in hot water for his bold humor. Known for his fearless delivery and offbeat comedic style, he’s made jokes about religion, politics, celebrities, and everything in between. And while he’s often praised for his bravery, this time, many feel he poked the wrong bear.

Roque, for his part, continued to fan the flames by calling on concert organizers and networks to be more “responsible” in vetting performances. He also hinted at the possibility of legal action, though no formal complaint has been filed as of this writing.

“What we allow in the name of comedy reflects the kind of society we’re building,” Roque added. “Are we building one that mocks decency, or one that upholds respect?”

Meanwhile, Vice Ganda has remained silent. No official statement has been released by the comedian or his management. On social media, however, his followers have continued to show their support, flooding his posts with messages of love and encouragement, with many using the hashtag “#StandWithVice.”

The issue has also reignited long-standing tensions between the entertainment industry and political personalities. For years, the boundaries of comedy in the Philippines have been debated—what counts as satire, and when does it become personal attack? This latest controversy only adds fuel to that ongoing discussion.

Observers are watching closely to see how this will unfold: Will Vice apologize? Will Roque push for action beyond public criticism? And how will this affect Vice’s standing in an industry where popularity and controversy often go hand in hand?

What’s clear for now is this: Vice Ganda is once again at the center of a national conversation—not because of a hit performance or a trending joke, but because of a clash between comedy and political pride.

As for the Filipino public, they’re once again faced with the question: Where do we draw the line between freedom of expression and respect?

One thing’s for sure: This story is far from over. And in a country where politics and entertainment often collide, the next punchline could come from anywhere—and hit harder than anyone expects.