Sen. Marcoleta slams Vice Ganda over concert joke; links endorsements to betting games

• Senator Rodante Marcoleta criticized comedian Vice Ganda for a joke she made about him during a recent concert

• The senator's comments were made during a Senate hearing on online betting games, where he linked the use of popular endorsers to the industry's growth

• Marcoleta's public statement has sparked a debate on social media about the boundaries of comedy and celebrity influence

• The incident highlights the growing tension between legislative oversight and the entertainment industry in the Philippines

Senator Rodante Marcoleta has publicly expressed his displeasure with comedian and television host Vice Ganda, accusing her of "dragging his name" into a joke during a recent concert.

The senator’s comments were made during a Senate hearing on the proliferation of online betting games, where he also drew a connection between the use of popular endorsers and the industry's rapid growth.

During the session, Senator Marcoleta took a moment to address a viral clip from one of Vice Ganda's recent performances.

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“Bigla niya (Vice Ganda) ba naman sinabing, ‘Tingnan niyo ‘yung mukha ni Marcoleta kung matatawa kayo,’” the senator stated, recounting the joke that used his name.

This unexpected remark during a formal proceeding instantly captured the attention of those present and highlighted a personal conflict that has since gained traction on social media.

Following his recollection of the joke, Marcoleta expanded on his line of questioning, shifting the focus to the broader topic of celebrity influence.

He asserted that the online betting game industry, which has become a major concern for authorities due to its social implications, is able to attract a large audience by tapping well-known personalities like Vice Ganda to promote their platforms.

While the senator did not directly accuse Vice Ganda of endorsing betting games, his comments implicitly linked her widespread influence to the very issue being discussed.

This is not the first time Senator Marcoleta has been at the center of public attention for his firm stance on national issues.

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Known for his methodical questioning during legislative inquiries, he has often been a polarizing figure. His public call-out of a major celebrity like Vice Ganda adds a new layer to his public persona and has sparked a heated debate online.

Supporters of the comedian were quick to defend her, arguing that comedy is a form of free expression and that jokes, even if pointed, are part of the entertainment landscape.

In contrast, Marcoleta's supporters agreed with his sentiment that public figures should be more mindful of the content they create, especially given their influence.

The incident underscores the growing tension between legislative oversight and the entertainment industry in the digital age.

It raises questions about the line between satire and personal attacks, and the responsibility of public figures to the public.

As the Senate continues its investigation into online betting games, the intersection of celebrity culture, social media, and national policy is likely to remain a central point of discussion.

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Vice Ganda is a prominent Filipino comedian, actor, television host, and singer. He is widely recognized for his sharp wit, flamboyant persona, and significant contributions to Philippine entertainment. He began his career performing stand-up comedy in Manila's comedy bars. His big break came when he became a regular host on ABS-CBN's noontime variety show It's Showtime in 2009. His charisma and humor quickly made him a household name in the local show business.

Early this month, Vice Ganda was spotted grabbing a meal at a fast food chain shortly after the GMA Gala 2025. Fresh off the star-studded event, Vice Ganda was seen satisfying a late-night craving at a nearby McDonald's. Viral photos and videos show the “It’s Showtime” host still dressed in glamorous gala attire while enjoying a meal. On X, formerly Twitter, Meme Vice playfully explained why he made the McDo stop along with his team.

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Previously, she also delighted fans online after sharing a fabulous moment with Anne Curtis and Heart Evangelista. On Instagram Stories, Meme Vice published a stunning selfie featuring Anne and Heart captured at the GMA Gala 2025. The snap shows the three beaming while posing together in their glamorous evening looks. Along with the photo, which exuded elegance and star power, Vice wrote a fitting caption.

Source: KAMI.com.gh