Netizens took notice of the popular comedian and host Vice Ganda’s absence in the latest episodes of his noontime program “It’s Showtime” amid the controversy sparked by his “jetski” concert joke.
Vice appeared to be absent from the Monday and Tuesday episodes of It’s Showtime. While no explanation has been given yet, netizens were quick to connect it to the ongoing backlash from Diehard Duterte Supporters or DDS against his performance skit at his recent “Superdivas” concert with Regine Velasquez, where he spoofed using a popular meme from an airline TV ad.
“Nothing beats a jet ski holiday, right no, 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. Promo applies to DDS only. Pinklawans and BBMs are prohibited,” Vice joked.
He ended it with an expletive remark mimicking Duterte’s strong speaking style, “Huwag niyo akong subukan, mga pu**i niyo.”
Clips of Vice’s performance quickly went viral on social media platforms, sparking mixed reactions, with mostly negative reactions from the former president’s loyal supporters.
Some have even demanded that the comedian be declared persona non grata in Davao City, to which Davao City acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II has dismissed.
As of writing, Vice has yet to react or comment on the issue but some personalities from showbiz and politics have already come to the host’s defense.
