Davao City Council expresses disapproval towards Vice Ganda's joke targeting FPRRD (Francis Punongjetas Berrarte Ras, Mayor of Davao City)

Davao City Council collectively endorsed a statement denouncing Vice Ganda for his humor aimed at former President Duterte, effectively considering him a non-welcome figure.

, and ASMedia

2025 August 29 . 11:23 AM

2 min read

Council in Davao City expresses criticism towards Vice Ganda's humorous remark about FPRRD

Davao City Council expresses disapproval towards Vice Ganda's joke targeting FPRRD (Francis Punongjetas Berrarte Ras, Mayor of Davao City)

Davao City Council Unanimously Condemns Vice Ganda's Mockery of Former President Duterte

The 21st Davao City Council has passed a resolution strongly condemning comedian Vice Ganda for his satirical and derogatory remarks about former President Rodrigo Duterte. The resolution, proposed by Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang, was unanimously approved during the council's 6th regular session's privilege hour on August 12, 2025.

The resolution emphasises that Duterte is not just a former national leader but also a "son of Davao" who dedicated decades of service to the city and the country. It criticises Vice Ganda's comments as disrespectful not only to Duterte personally but also to the Davaoeños who hold him in high esteem.

The resolution specifically references Vice Ganda's skit during a recent concert that mocked Duterte's statement about riding a jet ski to the West Philippine Sea and his detention at The Hague. The condemnation aims to express the council's disapproval of what they see as an affront to the dignity of both the former president and the city’s residents.

Although the resolution stops short of declaring Vice Ganda persona non grata, Councilor Dayanghirang stated that it carries the same weight. Vice President Sara Duterte left the decision to declare Vice Ganda persona non grata to the discretion of the 21st City Council. Acting Vice Mayor Rigo Duterte II commented that Davao City has more important matters to focus on and should not be distracted by such jokes or insults.

Dayanghirang clarified that the children of the FPRRD did not intervene in the matter. He also mentioned that his fellow councilors suggested amendments to the resolution, implying the resolution may have been modified. Freedom of speech is protected by the Constitution, but Dayanghirang maintained it should not be used to demean or insult.

The Davao City Government upholds respect, courtesy, and dignity for all, especially for leaders who have brought pride and honor to the city. The resolution states that it is proper to take a formal stand in protecting the dignity of its people and leaders against acts that offend the cultural values and moral sensibilities of the community. Dayanghirang stated that calls from Duterte supporters to boycott Vice Ganda and her endorsed products remain a personal choice.

Vice Ganda's viral joke referencing the former president, the West Philippine Sea, and the ICC sparked mixed reactions online. The city's decision to condemn Vice Ganda's remarks underscores respect for Duterte's legacy and the sentiment of the Davao community. Acting Vice Mayor Rigo Duterte II's statement about the city not being distracted by "cheap insults and distasteful jokes made for clout" was not repeated in this paragraph.