In the rich tapestry of Philippine entertainment, comedy holds a special place—a form of art that entertains, heals, and connects generations. Recently, a heartfelt exchange captured the spotlight: veteran actor-comedian Roderick Paulate offered a sincere message to today’s comedy icon, Vice Ganda. This message wasn’t just a passing remark; it was a thoughtful nudge rooted in decades of experience, tradition, and an enduring legacy passed on from the late, great Dolphy—the “King of Comedy” in the Philippines.

During a recent episode of Fast Talk with Boy Abunda, Roderick Paulate, a household name known for his versatility as an actor and comedian, shared a pivotal memory from early in his career. The scene he revisited was from the set of John and Marsha sa Probinsya, a beloved classic. At the time, Paulate was primarily cast in dramatic roles and was already receiving awards for his acting prowess. But on this occasion, he stepped into comedy—a spontaneous, natural act that caught the attention of Dolphy himself.

Recounting the moment, Paulate shared how Dolphy had called him over during filming and said, “We’re laughing so hard—come over here, kid. Don’t shy away from comedy. Stick with it.” Dolphy, revered for his decades of contributions to Filipino comedy, emphasized continuity: “Comedy, just keep going. We need new comedians.” These words weren’t just encouragement—they were a call to action, a mentoring moment that inspired Paulate to embrace the comedic craft more fully. Indeed, he later took on iconic roles in films such as Mga Anak ni Facifica Falayfay, Gorio and Tekla, and Petrang Kabayo. These roles would go on to help shape the identity of modern Filipino comedy, blending humor with heart and social relevance.

Paulate’s recounting wasn’t merely nostalgic reminiscing. He made it clear that the message from Dolphy was intended to be passed on to the current generation, exemplified by Vice Ganda—an entertainer whose rise has reshaped the landscape of Philippine comedy. Vice Ganda’s career, marked by a unique blend of stand-up, acting, hosting, and advocacy, has pushed boundaries and brought new voices to the spotlight. Paulate acknowledged Vice’s venture into dramatic roles, applauding this bold artistic exploration. But he also reminded Vice—and others—that Dolphy’s advice was not just about telling jokes; it was about honoring the core essence of comedy. He said, “Dolphy’s advice wasn’t just to keep telling jokes, but to honor the essence of comedy. I wanted Vice to remember that.” This gentle admonition underscores the balance needed between evolution and preservation in any art form.

Vice Ganda has become a cultural phenomenon, celebrated not only for uproarious humor but also for addressing social issues and breaking stereotypes, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community. Paulate recognized this rare duality in Vice’s talent: the ability to command laughter while taking on more serious, dramatic roles with equal sincerity. One notable highlight of Vice’s career was his film And The Breadwinner Is…, which debuted at the Metro Manila Film Festival and was praised for its depth and emotional resonance. Paulate lauded Vice for this growth, acknowledging that the comedian is expanding his range while staying grounded in the roots of humor. He remarked, “I think he’s destined for success—and that is undeniable.” Beyond professional achievements, Paulate also pointed to a personal attribute that has endeared Vice to fans: his deep love for his mother. Paulate believes this virtue resonates with audiences and acts as a “lucky charm” in Vice’s career. He said, “If you love your mother, you’ll be blessed.” This blend of talent, authenticity, and genuine personal values contributes to Vice’s enduring appeal and success.

Paulate’s message carries weight far beyond the surface. In a world where comedy—and entertainment in general—is constantly evolving, some worry about losing sight of the foundational elements that make comedy truly meaningful. His gesture highlights several important themes. Comedy flourishes when seasoned professionals nurture and guide emerging talents. Dolphy’s example of mentoring younger comedians like Paulate exemplifies this tradition. Paulate, in turn, honors that legacy by reaching out to Vice Ganda, embodying the spirit of passing the torch. As comedic styles, platforms, and audience expectations shift, there is a risk that comedy might sacrifice its soul for novelty. Paulate’s reminder to honor the essence of comedy is a call to maintain authenticity—keeping humor heartfelt, relatable, and respectful even as it innovates. Furthermore, the entertainment industry, especially comedy, can be competitive and divisive. The mutual respect and support between Paulate and Vice offers a hopeful model of unity and nurturing across generations.

The heartfelt exchange resonated widely, making waves on social media and sparking conversations within the entertainment community. Fans celebrated the moment as a beautiful recognition of shared artistry: “Two comedy icons acknowledging one another—proof that respect transcends age.” “Dolphy smiles from above—his legacy lives on through this.” Colleagues in the industry echoed this sentiment, noting the humility and grace displayed by both Paulate and Vice. Many saw it as a masterclass in how comedy is more than laughter—it’s an emotional and cultural responsibility. In an industry that sometimes thrives on rivalry, this moment was a breath of fresh air, signaling a culture of mentorship and respect.

Roderick Paulate’s career has been remarkable not only for its longevity but for its continual evolution. In 2025, he was honored with the PMPC Star Award for Best Comedy Actor for his role in Da Pers Family. Despite shifting industry trends and personal challenges—including legal and political issues—Paulate remains a committed advocate and torchbearer for the art of comedy. His work today extends beyond performance; he is involved in co-creative roles that shape storytelling and nurture new talent. His journey underscores the enduring relevance of seasoned artists who adapt without losing their foundational principles.

At its heart, Paulate’s message speaks to the power of comedy as a healing and uniting force. Comedy is not just about jokes or punchlines; it’s about shared human experience—the blend of pain and joy, struggle and triumph. Through laughter, comedy helps people reflect, cope, and find hope—even in difficult times. Paulate’s emphasis on keeping comedy’s essence alive is a reminder that the art form serves a greater social and emotional function.

For Vice Ganda, Paulate’s words serve as both encouragement and gentle caution: to carry the mantle with humility, to keep laughter alive, and to never lose sight of comedy’s deeper mission—connecting with people in meaningful ways. For Paulate himself, passing on this wisdom is a way to ensure that comedy remains rooted in its golden era values while embracing new chapters of creativity and innovation.

When Roderick Paulate echoes Dolphy’s timeless advice and extends it to Vice Ganda, it symbolizes more than respect between two artists. It is a testament to the lineage, the tradition, and the shared commitment to brighten the world through humor. This gesture exemplifies how comedy—while evolving—can honor its past, inspire its present, and secure its future, one kind joke at a time.