From Laughter to Backlash: Harry Roque Slams Vice Ganda Over Controversial Concert Joke Involving Former President Duterte (NH)

From Laughter to Backlash: Harry Roque Slams Vice Ganda Over Controversial Concert Joke Involving Former President Duterte

Published: August 2025

Introduction

Comedy has long been a tool for reflection, criticism, and catharsis. But when punchlines begin to hit political nerves, they can ignite more than laughter—they can spark outrage. This was the case after Vice Ganda’s recent concert joke, which made light of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC situation. While some laughed, others—like former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque—found it deeply offensive.

The result? A firestorm of commentary, opinion pieces, and social media debates. This article delves into what happened, what was said, and what it means in a nation where politics, performance, and public sentiment collide.

The Controversial Joke at the “Super Divas” Concert

During the “Super Divas” concert held at the Araneta Coliseum in August 2025, Vice Ganda delivered a segment parodying travel advertisements. What started as a light-hearted joke referencing “Jet2Holiday” meme formats turned into a pointed bit involving former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Vice Ganda jokingly announced a fictional vacation promo: a “Jet Ski Holiday” to the West Philippine Sea, complete with “water bombing” adventures and an all-expense-paid trip to the Hague, home of the International Criminal Court (ICC). The joke ended with the punchline: “Promo applies to DDS only.”

It was a direct reference to the infamous “jet ski to the West Philippine Sea” promise Duterte once made, as well as recent developments involving international legal issues.

The Fallout: Harry Roque’s Strong Response

Within days, Harry Roque, Duterte’s former spokesperson and a long-time defender of his legacy, took to social media to express his displeasure. His statements were emotionally charged and accusatory, reflecting the depth of offense he took on behalf of the former president.

In a Facebook Live broadcast, Roque stated:

“Tayong mga Pilipino, kapag ang isang tao ay nakadapa na, hindi na natin sinisipa. Vice Ganda, ang ginawa mo, habang nakadapa si Tatay Digong, sinipa mo pa.”

He further questioned the intent behind the joke, implying that Vice was taking advantage of Duterte’s vulnerable position for entertainment, and even hinted at the possibility that Vice was being “paid” by political rivals to do so:

“Baka naman binayaran ka para saktan si Tatay Digong… mula doon sa ‘Tambaloslos’.”

The implication was clear—Roque saw the joke not as innocent comedy, but as a deliberate attack against a man already facing legal battles and public scrutiny.

Why the Joke Hit a Nerve

To understand the backlash, one must consider the emotional weight that Duterte still holds for his supporters. Despite stepping down from office in 2022, the former president retains a loyal following, and his name still inspires intense political reactions.

The ICC’s investigation into Duterte’s controversial war on drugs has brought renewed scrutiny to his legacy. Supporters view these proceedings as unjust, while critics see them as long-overdue accountability.

In this context, Vice Ganda’s joke wasn’t just a throwaway punchline—it was a reference to an ongoing, deeply divisive issue.

Vice Ganda’s Intent and Style of Comedy

Vice Ganda has long been known for mixing politics into comedy. Through innuendo and satire, he’s commented on social realities that many Filipinos can relate to. His style often blurs the line between entertainment and critique—a hallmark of satire.

While he has not responded directly to Roque’s remarks, those familiar with his work argue that the joke falls well within the realm of comedic expression. After all, parody and political satire are common in both Philippine and global entertainment.

However, the delicate balance lies in how and when such jokes are made—and who is the target.

Legal and Ethical Perspectives

In the wake of Roque’s emotional response, Justice Undersecretary Claire Castro was asked to weigh in. She offered a more measured view, invoking the principle of freedom of expression.

According to Castro, comedians like Vice Ganda are protected by the law when using humor as long as it doesn’t incite violence or cause direct harm:

“If there’s no intention to incite hatred or cause direct personal damage, then it falls under artistic and expressive freedom.”

This legal protection, however, does not necessarily shield artists from moral or social backlash. In the age of cancel culture and online vigilantism, consequences often come not from the law—but from public opinion.

Public Reactions: A Nation Divided

As expected, the public’s response was split.

Supporters of Vice Ganda argued that:

Comedy should challenge the powerful, not protect them.
Satire is meant to reflect society’s realities, no matter how uncomfortable.
Political figures are not above criticism—especially through art.

Critics, led by Duterte supporters, claimed that:

The joke was disrespectful and tasteless.
Duterte should be left alone, especially now that he’s no longer in power.
The skit showed a lack of compassion and basic decency.

The hashtag #RespectTatayDigong trended for a brief period, while others countered with #ComedyIsNotACrime.

Freedom of Expression vs. Sensitivity

This incident has once again revived the long-running debate between freedom of expression and respect for public figures.

Critics of Vice argue that just because one can say something doesn’t mean one should. They emphasize the Filipino value of delicadeza—a sense of propriety, especially toward elders or former leaders.

On the other hand, artists and freedom advocates believe that pushing boundaries is the role of performers like Vice. They argue that if public figures and institutions cannot withstand satire, democracy suffers.

A Question of Timing?

One of the most contentious elements of the joke was when it was made.

Vice’s skit came amid heightened attention to Duterte’s legal challenges abroad. For supporters, this timing felt like “kicking someone who’s already down”—an act viewed as opportunistic and cruel.

Others, however, argue that comedy is always a reflection of current events—and thus, timing is inevitable. In that light, the joke wasn’t an attack, but a reflection of the zeitgeist.

Where Does This Leave Vice Ganda?

As of this writing, Vice Ganda has not released any statement addressing Roque’s criticisms. The comedian continues with his regular programming and promotional appearances, possibly opting to let the controversy fade naturally.

Some speculate that the issue may affect brand deals or public sentiment in the short term, but many also believe that Vice’s fan base is strong enough to weather the storm.

Whether this will lead to self-censorship or inspire more outspoken material remains to be seen.

Conclusion

This incident involving Harry Roque and Vice Ganda is more than just a celebrity spat—it reflects the current tension in Philippine society between humor and hurt, free speech and responsibility, loyalty and criticism.

In a country where politics and entertainment frequently intersect, such controversies are likely to continue. And as audiences, perhaps it is also our role to listen—not just to the jokes, but to the reactions they inspire.

Because sometimes, the loudest laugh also says the most about who we are—and who we’re becoming.

When Comedy Meets Politics: A History of Satire in Philippine Entertainment
Vice Ganda and the Limits of Free Expression: Legal Experts Weigh In
Rodrigo Duterte’s ICC Case: What You Need to Know
Harry Roque: Defender, Spokesman, and Now Social Commentator
The Ethics of Comedy: Should Public Figures Be Off-Limits?