From Willie Nep to Vee Pee Sara: Filipino political satirists through the years

Philippine politics, with its constant twists and turns, often feels like a grand spectacle – a fertile ground for humor and critique. For generations, Filipinos have channeled their observations and frustrations into political satire, using everything from witty impersonations to viral internet memes to challenge power and spark conversations.

Take the current spotlight on flood control projects and the buzz around the 'Discayas' controversy. It’s no surprise that this real-life drama quickly translated into comedic gold. Veteran comedian Michael V., for instance, recently introduced a new character on his long-running gag show, Bubble Gang: the aptly named Ciala Dismaya, a clear nod to the ongoing events.

Tracing back this rich tradition, we find the late Willie Nepomuceno, a true pioneer of political impersonation. A Fine Arts alumnus from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Nepomuceno honed his craft by mimicking voices before rising to prominence during the First Quarter Storm in the 1970s. He fearlessly donned the guise of then-President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. at rallies, using his artistic talents to amplify activist messages – so effectively, in fact, that the government reportedly asked him to cease. Even decades later, in 2022, he reprised his Marcos Sr. role at the EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary, proving the enduring power of his art. He famously once quipped, “They say comedy is just a twist from reality… I think the original is funnier, the ones actually happening, their statements.” Nepomuceno, who passed away in 2023 at 75, left an undeniable legacy, inspiring countless comedians to wield impersonation for social and political awareness.

The 1980s saw the emergence of other iconic satirists. Manuel "Jun" Urbano Jr., better known as Mr. Shooli, became a household name with his "Isang platitong mani" catchphrase. As a Mongolian character with a Chinese accent, Mr. Shooli offered witty commentary on Philippine politics, often disarming powerful figures like Fidel V. Ramos, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and even a younger Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. with his charming, playful banter. Urbano, honored with the FAMAS Dr. Jose R. Perez Memorial Award and the UP Gawad Plaridel before his passing in 2023, once delivered an acceptance speech as Mr. Shooli, joking about the shift from shouting "Police, help!" to "Help, there's a cop!" when in trouble – a poignant reflection on changing public trust.

Simultaneously, the small screen offered Sic O'Clock News, a groundbreaking political satire show that aired from 1987 to 1990 during the Cory Aquino administration. Directed by Marilou Diaz-Abaya and featuring a talented ensemble including Jaime Fabregas and Ces Quesada, the show tackled pressing issues and essentially created pre-social media political memes. Its run, however, was cut short when its network, IBC, was sequestered by the government.

Moving into the 1990s, ABS-CBN captivated audiences not only with telenovelas but also with the sharp satirical series Abangan ang Susunod na Kabanata (1991-1997). Led by a stellar cast including Noel Trinidad, Tessie Tomas, and Roderick Paulate, the show cleverly wove political and social frustrations into the daily lives of three fictional families. Directed by Johnny Manahan and written by the acclaimed Jose Javier Reyes, this classic even spawned a sequel, Eto Na Ang Susunod na Kabanata, in 2001.

The 2000s ushered in a new wave of comedic brilliance. Michael V. continued his reign as a cornerstone of Bubble Gang, delighting audiences with his creative song spoofs, like "Waiting Here sa Pila" (a parody of "Raining in Manila") and "Salarin, Salarin." He masterfully lampooned political figures, notably transforming into "Gloria Makapal-Arroyo" for his "Cabinet Meeting" skit and consistently addressing issues like "nepo babies" and political dynasties. His latest character, Ciala Dismaya, illustrates his continued knack for timely social commentary. Michael V. recently reaffirmed his commitment to GMA Network, highlighting his invaluable contribution to the industry.

Alongside Michael V., Jon Santos established himself as a master impressionist. From "Governor Vi" to "Senator Meeryam Defensive Defender," Santos flawlessly embodied a spectrum of public figures, including beauty queens like Megan Young and Catriona Gray, and a roster of post-Marcos presidents. Though his anticipated "Naughty and Nice" comeback show was postponed, Santos remains active, even serving as a rotating judge on Drag Race Philippines.

Renee Hampshire, famously known as Ate Glow, also left an indelible mark with her spot-on portrayal of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. What started as a university variety show act during Arroyo's vice presidency grew into a career-defining role. Ate Glow's performances often brought a complex interplay between personal political beliefs and her comedic character. Once Arroyo's term concluded, so did Ate Glow's, with Hampshire choosing to retire the character as she embarked on a new chapter in her personal life.

Beyond the stage and screen, activist and actress Mae Paner used her alter ego Juana Change to make powerful statements during rallies and protests. A Psychology graduate with a theater background, Paner famously appeared as "Pork Barrel" with a pig mask during the 2013 Million People March against the pork barrel scam. Her monologues, such as "Tao Po" which tackled extrajudicial killings, consistently blend theatricality with a fervent call for social justice, even extending to a recent portrayal of Imelda Marcos at an EDSA anniversary.

In the post-pandemic era, political satire has found a new, highly accessible home online, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. One of the most viral examples is Inday Tasha, a former food market server who gained widespread recognition for her uncanny resemblance to Vice President Sara Duterte. "Vee Pee Sara," as she's known online, uses her platform to create lighthearted parodies of the VP's controversies. While acknowledging both positive and negative feedback, Inday Tasha maintains a neutral stance, emphasizing that her content aims for amusement without malice or misinformation, stating she’s "not doing anything bad or wrong."

From the courageous stage acts of Willie Nepomuceno to the viral online parodies of Inday Tasha, Filipinos have consistently turned to comedy as a unique lens through which to engage with and critique their nation's political landscape. Whether delivered in a packed theater, on primetime television, or through a smartphone screen, humor remains a powerful and enduring tool for awareness and a vital challenge to authority.