When it comes to showbiz, few names shine as brightly as Vice Ganda. But this time, the spotlight isn’t just about laughs and glamour—it’s about controversy. In the past few days, Vice Ganda has been called a “hypocrite” for endorsing online gambling, despite having previously spoken out strongly against gambling. So what happened? And is the backlash justified?

Let’s dig into the facts, reactions, and what this means not just for fans, but for the growing debate around online gambling in the Philippines.

Vice Ganda vs Gambling: A Timeline of Contradictions

In multiple interviews and public appearances over the years, Vice Ganda has voiced concern about the negative impact of gambling, especially on Filipino families. His statements have echoed widespread worries about addiction, poverty, and the moral decay associated with traditional and online gambling platforms.

But recently, a video surfaced showing Vice Ganda promoting an online gambling platform—and it’s gone viral for all the wrong reasons.

“You said gambling is wrong… but now you’re promoting it? Why, Vice?” one viewer commented under the viral video, echoing the sentiments of thousands.

What Is Online Gambling and Why Is It Controversial?

Online gambling has surged in popularity in recent years, especially since the pandemic. With platforms accessible 24/7 and marketing campaigns using celebrities to attract users, it’s become both a booming industry and a rising concern among advocacy groups and lawmakers.

Critics argue that online gambling targets vulnerable individuals, including youth, and can lead to hidden addiction. It often evades traditional regulations, making it harder to control and monitor. The financial and emotional damage it causes to families is increasingly alarming, especially when popular figures like Vice Ganda are seen promoting it.

With a powerful influencer like Vice Ganda endorsing online gambling, the backlash was almost inevitable.

Is Vice Ganda Being Hypocritical?

That’s the million-peso question on everyone’s mind.

Supporters of the comedian argue that Vice may have been unaware of the platform’s full nature or that his involvement was strictly professional. Others suggest that his perspective might have shifted with time, especially given how normalized online gambling has become in media culture.

However, for many netizens, the contradiction between his words and actions is too significant to ignore. Terms like “ipokrito” and “sellout” are just some of the harsh labels being thrown around on social media.

What makes this controversy sting even more is the deep trust Vice Ganda has built with the Filipino public—not just as a comedian and TV personality, but as a voice of conscience on social issues.

Netizens React: Mixed Emotions Flood Social Media

Social media has exploded with a flood of reactions ranging from shock and betrayal to confusion and fierce defense. On platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok, hashtags such as #ViceGandaHypocrite, #StopOnlineGambling, and #IpokritoVice have quickly trended.

Many are voicing disappointment, saying that someone who once stood against gambling now appears to be encouraging it through endorsement. “You spoke like a role model, but acted like a paid promoter,” one comment reads. Others worry that fans, especially the younger audience, might now see gambling as acceptable or even glamorous.

Still, some fans have taken a more understanding stance, saying celebrities are under pressure too, and endorsements are part of survival in the industry. One netizen commented, “Don’t blame Vice—blame the system. Everyone’s trying to earn a living.”

What Can Be Learned from This?

This incident sparks a broader and much-needed conversation about celebrity responsibility, especially in the digital age where endorsements can spread like wildfire. Should celebrities be held accountable for the brands they promote? Should the public be more critical of what influencers sell us?

More importantly, it reignites the national debate about the regulation of online gambling. The issue isn’t just about one celebrity—it’s about the increasing influence of online gambling platforms and their ability to shape public behavior through media and personalities.

Final Thoughts: Will Vice Ganda Address the Issue?

So far, Vice Ganda has not released a full statement or explanation regarding the endorsement. But his silence is being interpreted by many as a refusal to acknowledge the controversy. That silence, ironically, speaks volumes.

“Your voice helped fight against gambling. Now your face is used to lure people into it. Will you speak up again—or stay quiet?” asks one viral comment that has resonated with thousands.

This isn’t just another celebrity gossip headline. It’s a cultural flashpoint. And as the debate around online gambling continues to grow in the Philippines, this controversy may well become a defining moment in how influencers are held accountable for their choices.