Casual on-air exchange sparks renewed debate on 2013 issue, with netizens split over accountability and forgiveness.
Trigger Warning: This article contains mentions of rape and sexual violence.
A lighthearted exchange on “It’s Showtime” has unexpectedly reignited discussions about the long-standing history between Vice Ganda and veteran journalist Jessica Soho.
During a recent episode, Vice asked a contestant to name his favorite journalist. The contestant answered Jessica Soho, saying she is “napapanahon at laging nakakasabay sa uso.” Vice quickly agreed, replying, “Yes, we love Jessica Soho. We all watch KMJS, right?”
The moment prompted netizens to recall the pair’s widely publicized 2013 controversy, when Vice drew criticism for making a joke referencing rape during a comedy concert. Soho later clarified that the issue was never about her personally, but about how rape should never be used as comedy material because of the trauma experienced by survivors.
Vice eventually issued a public apology on “It’s Showtime,” which Soho acknowledged, saying she hoped it came with the “purest intentions.”
Following the recent episode, reactions online were divided. Some accused Vice of being “plastic,” while others defended her, noting that she had already taken accountability for the incident.
“We can’t really blame Madam Jessica either. Maybe forgiven but never forgotten… Vice accepted her mistake,” one netizen wrote.
Others expressed hope that the two would eventually meet again, with one fan commenting, “One of the things I’m waiting for is for them to meet in the same show, whether KMJS or Vice Ganda’s vlog.”
READ:
‘It’s Showtime’ contestant sparks debate after disappointment over ₱30,000 win
Denchelle Castro
June 3, 2026
Seems like no one can stop ‘It’s Showtime’ from shading the Philippine Senate
Denchelle Castro
May 14, 2026
Vice Ganda recreates viral Maxie Andreison clip in ‘It’s Showtime’ parody
Rafael Asonza
July 7, 2026
