Pokwang Defends Vice Ganda Amid Controversy Over “Jetski Holiday” Joke

Pokwang, the Kapuso comedienne and TV host, has called on critics of Vice Ganda to refrain from dragging the comedian’s mother, Rosario Viceral, into the ongoing controversy surrounding Vice’s “jetski holiday” joke. This joke, made during the Superdivas concert with Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez on August 8, 2025, has drawn ire from staunch supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte, as it references Duterte’s controversial promise regarding the West Philippine Sea.

The Joke That Sparked Outrage

During the concert, Vice Ganda made a joke about Duterte’s infamous “jet ski” promise, which has become a point of contention given the former president’s current legal troubles at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. The joke, which utilized a viral Jet2holiday meme, did not sit well with many Duterte supporters, leading to a wave of backlash against Vice.

Pokwang’s Plea for Respect

In response to the backlash, Pokwang took to social media on August 11 to appeal to Duterte’s supporters, urging them not to involve Vice’s mother in the controversy. She expressed understanding for those offended by Vice’s joke but emphasized that Rosario Viceral is a private citizen and should not be subjected to ridicule.

Pokwang stated, “Wag naman po tayong ganyan! Kung may na-offend man sa joke ni Vice, e wag naman po idamay ang nanay kasi hindi naman artista or politiko ang kanyang ina. Kaming mga artista at politiko ay tanggap namin na na ba bash kami kahit minsan masakit, wag naman si nanay Rosario please.”

The Response from Duterte Supporters

In reaction to Pokwang’s post, a Duterte supporter commented on the affection shown by the former president towards Vice’s mother, highlighting a birthday greeting from Duterte. Pokwang quickly responded, asserting that Rosario had no involvement in writing the joke and should not be implicated in the controversy surrounding her son.

She reiterated, “I’m sure di naman nya nalilimutan yan pero yung idamay natin ang nanay na hindi naman artista or politiko e maling mali po, hindi naman si nanay Rosario nagsulat ng script ni meme or nag utos sa kanya na ganon ang i joke nya!”

Broader Reactions and Support for Vice

Pokwang’s defense of Vice Ganda has resonated with many netizens and lawmakers who have also come to the comedian’s aid. They argue that Vice’s comments were part of the performance and should not be taken as a serious affront.

The controversy intensified after a fake resolution circulated on social media, claiming that Vice had been declared persona non grata in Davao City due to his joke. However, Davao City acting Vice-Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II denied the existence of such a resolution, stating that the city council has more pressing matters to address.

Rigo criticized Vice’s joke as “cheap insults and distasteful jokes made for clout,” emphasizing that Davao City would not be distracted by such antics.

Conclusion

The ongoing controversy highlights the delicate balance public figures must navigate in their performances, especially when touching on sensitive political topics. Pokwang’s appeal for respect towards Vice Ganda’s mother serves as a reminder of the personal impact that public discourse can have on individuals outside the spotlight. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how both Vice and his critics will respond to the evolving narrative.