Duterte Grandson Responds to Vice Ganda Controversy: No Ban in Davao, ‘We Have Bigger Concerns’

In the midst of the growing uproar surrounding comedian-host Vice Ganda’s controversial “jet ski holiday” joke about former President Rodrigo Duterte, Acting Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II has publicly addressed the situation. He clarified that contrary to rumors circulating online, there is no “persona non grata” order or ban against Vice Ganda in Davao City.

The remarks come amid calls by some Duterte supporters in various parts of the country to boycott Vice Ganda and even label him unwelcome in their communities. One viral social media campaign suggested imposing such a ban in Duterte’s hometown of Davao City, sparking widespread discussion.

Duterte’s Grandson: Focus on Real Issues, Not Celebrity Feuds

In a statement released on Sunday, Duterte II, who is also the son of Davao City Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, made clear that the Davao City Council has not enacted any formal resolution declaring Vice Ganda persona non grata or barring him from the city.

He explained that the local government has more pressing matters to attend to, emphasizing:

“The Davao City Council is focused on bigger concerns like infrastructure, public safety, livelihood, and social services.”

The younger Duterte also issued a pointed remark about Vice Ganda’s public platform and the nature of his comedy:

“Public figures like Vice Ganda, who use their platform to mock rather than uplift, reveal more about their own character than about the people they ridicule.”

A Call for Respect and Responsibility

Duterte II added a challenge to the comedian, urging him to consider how he wishes to be remembered:

“If Vice Ganda wishes to be remembered for more than empty laughs and headline-grabbing jabs, perhaps it’s time to show the same hard work, discipline and respect that Davao’s leaders and citizens demonstrate daily.”

This comment subtly referenced the widespread criticism Vice Ganda faced from Duterte loyalists for his joke about the former president during the “Superdivas: The Concert” with Regine Velasquez. In that skit, Vice Ganda mocked Duterte’s campaign promise to ride a jet ski to the West Philippine Sea as a symbol of asserting Philippine sovereignty, adding a sarcastic twist about the International Criminal Court (ICC) trial Duterte currently faces.

The Context: Vice Ganda’s “Jet Ski Holiday” Joke

Vice Ganda’s controversial line—intended as satire—was:

“Nothing beats a jet ski holiday! Ride now from Manila to the West Philippine Sea by jet ski! Get unlimited water bombing from Chinese vessels and a free trip to The Hague by ICC! Promo applies to DDS only! Pinklawans and BBMs are prohibited. ’Wag niyo akong subukan mga put*ng ina n’yo!”

The joke sparked a heated debate nationwide, with some finding it hilarious and a sharp critique of Duterte’s policies, while others condemned it as disrespectful and cruel, especially since Duterte is now detained at the ICC on charges related to alleged crimes against humanity.

Divided Public Opinion and Political Fallout

The joke deepened existing divides between Vice Ganda’s supporters, including progressive politicians like AKBAYAN Rep. Perci Cendaña, and staunch Duterte loyalists who have launched boycotts and social media campaigns against the comedian and brands associated with him.

Some Duterte supporters called for boycotts of establishments endorsed by Vice Ganda, such as McDonald’s Philippines. Others called for the comedian to be declared unwelcome in Duterte’s home region.

The Davao City Council’s Stand

Despite the intense online campaigns, Duterte II clarified that Davao City is not participating in any ban or persona non grata declarations against Vice Ganda.

Instead, the local government is focused on tangible programs and initiatives aimed at improving the daily lives of residents, such as:

Improving infrastructure projects to boost mobility and commerce.

Enhancing public safety and disaster preparedness.

Expanding livelihood opportunities for marginalized communities.

Strengthening social services including healthcare and education.

Political Legacy and Expectations

The younger Duterte’s comments also highlight the high standards Davao leaders set for themselves and their constituents—discipline, respect, and hard work—qualities he suggests Vice Ganda should emulate if he seeks to win respect beyond fleeting humor.

This reflects the long-standing pride many Davaoeños have in their city’s reputation for order and development, which former President Duterte helped cultivate during his tenure as Davao City mayor before assuming the presidency.

Vice Ganda’s Role in Philippine Society

Vice Ganda remains one of the Philippines’ most influential entertainers, known for blending comedy with social commentary. While some see him as a bold truth-teller using satire to highlight issues others avoid, others view his humor as crossing a line, particularly when it targets political figures with loyal followings.

This latest controversy has renewed debates about the limits of free speech and the role of comedians in political discourse, raising questions such as:

Should comedians avoid jokes that could be perceived as personal attacks on elderly or vulnerable figures?

How should public officials respond to satire in a democratic society?

Can humor foster constructive dialogue or does it deepen divisions?

What Lies Ahead?

As the ICC trial of former President Duterte proceeds, the political atmosphere in the Philippines remains highly charged. Figures like Vice Ganda will likely continue to be focal points for debates on free speech and accountability.

Meanwhile, local governments like Davao City appear intent on staying focused on practical governance rather than symbolic political battles. Duterte II’s statements reflect a desire to move past celebrity feuds and concentrate on delivering services and improving quality of life for their constituents.

Conclusion

The recent uproar over Vice Ganda’s joke has highlighted not only the country’s deep political divides but also the enduring tensions between satire and respect. Acting Davao Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte II’s firm stance against a ban on the comedian in their city underscores a pragmatic approach: there are more important issues at hand than celebrity controversies.

As the Philippines navigates these challenges, it remains clear that humor, politics, and public sentiment will continue to collide—shaping the country’s discourse in unpredictable ways.

Whether Vice Ganda’s brand of comedy ultimately unites or divides the nation is a question only time will answer. But for now, Davao City is making it clear: it’s business as usual, with bigger concerns on the agenda.