Comedy is not just all about punchlines as it can also serve as a mirror of society.
In the past few weeks, Michael V.’s impersonation of “Ciala Dismaya” has been all over social media, turning a Bubble Gang sketch into a viral talking point.
The parody, which takes aim at businesswoman Sarah Discaya, arrived at a moment when she is facing Senate scrutiny over flood control projects. By blurring the lines between entertainment and commentary, the skit showed how satire can break out of television screens and enter the public conversation.
Discaya has been criticized for her construction firms’ dominance in public works contracts, her fleet of luxury cars, and her fiery Senate appearances. These are weighty issues, often buried in technical reports and long hearings. But through parody, Bitoy distilled them into a character that was instantly recognizable and widely discussed. Few will pore over committee transcripts, but a viral sketch can spark just as much debate.
The risk is part of what makes the parody resonate. Few entertainers take on headlines when the personalities involved wield real political and financial clout. By stepping into the character of “Ciala Dismaya,” Bitoy reminded viewers that comedians, too, have a role in checking those in power.
Still, he was mindful of the fine line between satire and insult. Speaking at Ricky Lee’s book launch, Bitoy admitted he “breathed easier” when he learned Discaya wasn’t offended.
“Natuwa ako, siyempre. Nakahinga ako nang maluwag. Never talaga kaming nang-offend. Never kaming nag-yurak ng mga tao,” Bitoy said.
Asked why he pursued the parody, the comedian explained that it came from public demand.
“May clamor para dito sa character so we had to do it,” he said, adding that beyond entertainment, satire has a civic role.
“Feeling ko, kung makakatulong ’to sa pag-create ng awareness sa mga totoong nangyayari, edi sige. By all memes,” he continued.
In the end, “Ciala Dismaya” worked because it wasn’t only a joke, it was a statement. By putting a spotlight on a figure already clouded by controversy, Bitoy reminded audiences that comedy isn’t only about laughter. In his hands, it becomes a way of asking questions the nation can’t afford to ignore.
