Roque to Vice Ganda: ‘You Keep Kicking a Man on the Ground’
Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque openly criticized comedian-host Vice Ganda for mocking former President Rodrigo Duterte during a recent concert. He called the onstage joke a “merciless” act aimed at an elderly man already in a vulnerable position.
“No Mercy”: Roque’s Strong Reprimand
During a media appearance Monday, Roque condemned Vice Ganda’s joke, labeling it “walang awa”—literally, “merciless.” He said:
“You know, as Filipinos, when someone is already down, you don’t kick them. Vice Ganda—Tatay Digong is knocked down, imprisoned, 80 years old, likely dying in jail, and yet you continue to kick.”
He continued:
“What are you gaining from that? If you can’t say something nice, you should remain silent. Do you really want to push a man who’s already imprisoned and elderly? The Filipino people aren’t like that.”
A Warning: “What Goes Around Comes Around”
Roque didn’t stop at criticism—he warned Vice Ganda about karma, urging compassion even for a political prisoner. He concluded:
“Pray that Tatay Digong and his supporters remain humbled. Remember: the world is round. And when it comes back to you, may his supporters remember they have hearts—someone down should not be kicked further.”
What Sparked the Backlash?
The remarks were prompted by a segment of Vice Ganda’s recent Superdivas: The Concert with Regine Velasquez, where the comedian joked:
“Nothing beats a jet ski holiday—Manila to West Philippine Sea! Unlimited water bombing by Chinese vessels and a free trip to The Hague by ICC! Promo for DDS only—Pinklawans and BBMs prohibited. ‘Wag niyo akong subukan mga put*ng ina niyo!”
This skit directly referenced Duterte’s notorious “jet ski promise” and his current detention by the International Criminal Court. It molded satire out of a political statement, but Roque and others deemed it an attack on an elderly, imprisoned public figure.
Reactions: Backlash & Support
The jokes drew mixed reviews. Many in the audience and netizens laughed, citing Vice’s trademark biting humor. Others, particularly loyalists of Duterte, saw it as disrespectful.
Now, Roque’s condemnation adds more fuel to the fire. Supporters of Duterte have rallied online, while critics argue that satire is a valid form of commentary in a free society.
Who Is Harry Roque?
A veteran lawyer and politician, Roque served as Duterte’s presidential spokesperson from 2017 to 2018 and again from 2020 to 2021. A former law professor and human rights advocate, he has since become a polarizing figure—especially after Duterte’s ICC arrest—amid controversies including allegations tied to POGOs and human trafficking. He is currently considered a fugitive, having left the Philippines and filed for asylum abroad.Wikipedia
Historical Echoes: Roque vs. Vice
This is not the first time Roque and Vice Ganda have locked horns. In January 2021, Vice tweeted a satirical comparison, prompting Roque to respond by emphasizing—public policy and medical matters are for experts, not comedians. Shortly after, Vice retorted on “It’s Showtime”: “I’m a comedian. You’re the clown.”Philstar LifeInquirer Entertainment
Balancing Satire with Sensitivity
This recent clash showcases the delicate interplay between political satire and respect for human dignity. While satire can hold power to account, public figures and audiences must navigate expectations around tone, intent, and ethics.
Roque’s remarks highlight a view that certain boundaries—especially regarding individuals who are unwell or detained—ought to be respected, regardless of their past actions or public standing.
Public Discourse: A Mirror for Society
The incident raises broader questions:
How should comedians approach political humor when it involves vulnerable individuals?
What responsibility do hosts, media outlets, and platforms have in shaping discourse respectfully?
Where should the line be drawn between satire and exploitation?
Dialogue between artists and political figures, while often contentious, reflects the media’s role in shaping national dialogue. It also prompts an examination of how power, empathy, and accountability interact in the cultural sphere.
Final Thoughts
Harry Roque’s strong reaction to Vice Ganda’s “jet ski” joke isn’t just about old politics—it’s a clash between humor and compassion. Vice’s satire is undeniably bold, but Roque’s critique invites reflection on the ethics of comedy in fraught political contexts.
If we believe Filipino discourse should be both free and humane, then both sides—satirists and their targets—must consider not just the punchline, but who they’re pointing it at.
Info Box: Key References
Source & Author
Summary
Publiko News
Original published article, August 11, 2025
LionHearTV
Coverage of Vice’s “jet ski” joke and hashtags
Wikipedia – Harry Roque
Background on Roque’s career and controversies
Inquirer & PEP.ph
Previous exchanges between Roque and Vice (2021)
Let me know if you’d like the tone adjusted—friendlier, more formal—or if you’d prefer a Tagalog version next!
