Comedian and television host Vice Ganda has publicly apologized to viewers of It's Showtime following widespread online criticism over a joke that many netizens described as insensitive toward a guest performer's skin tone.
The issue arose during Saturday's live episode of the noontime program in the "MEMErimar" segment. As part of a slapstick comedy routine, Vice Ganda splashed water on Johaira, a member of the girl group Baby Dolls, before joking, “Anong nangyari sa 'yo? Ba't nagputik ka?”
The remark immediately drew criticism on social media, with many viewers saying it appeared to mock Johaira's complexion. Several netizens called out the joke as offensive and urged the show's hosts to be more mindful of remarks involving skin color.
In response to the backlash, Vice Ganda addressed the issue during the live broadcast and acknowledged the concerns raised by viewers.
"Nakarating po sa aming kaalaman na may mga madlang people na hindi nagustuhan o na-offend sa ilan sa aming jokes o biruan dito sa 'It's Showtime,' pati na rin sa mga ginagawa namin sa 'MEMErimar,' na they found the jokes offensive or insensitive," Vice said.
The comedian emphasized that the program's primary goal has always been to entertain and never to intentionally hurt or offend anyone.
"Gusto lang namin ipaalam po sa inyo na the last thing we want is to displease you o hindi mapasaya ang aming madlang people. Kaya naman, ina-acknowledge po namin ang inyong sentimyento at humihingi po kami ng paumanhin sa inyo," Vice added.
Vice Ganda also assured viewers that the production team would take the feedback seriously and strive to improve.
"We will try to do better. Maraming maraming salamat po," the host concluded, expressing gratitude for the audience's continued support.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions online about the importance of sensitivity in comedy, with many viewers emphasizing that humor should remain entertaining without reinforcing hurtful stereotypes or offending others.
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