Jessica Soho to Vice Ganda: Rape is not a joke

GMA News anchor Jessica Soho has reacted to a joke made by comedian Vice Ganda about the popular media personality and an imagined rape scenario, which has drawn criticism from many sectors.

In his concert last May 17, Vice Ganda joked that if Soho were a bold star in a movie, the scene would have to involve a "gang rape." The comedian made fun of Soho's physique for a full two minutes before moving on to other celebrities.

In a statement sent to GMA News Online on Tuesday, Soho said: "Rape is not a joke and should never be material for a comedy concert."

She added: "I thank all those who shared my hurt and expressed their support, but this should not be about me but about rape victims who suffer tremendously from this terrible crime. The horrors they go through are unspeakable and should never be taken lightly, especially by way of a cruel joke."

Soho is the host of the evening news program "State of the Nation" on GMA News TV and of "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho" on GMA. The latter is the network's top-rated program. She is also the Vice President for News Programs of GMA Network.

She studied at the University of the Philippines and has won numerous accolades, including the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award, in her career as a broadcast journalist for more than two decades.

Soho has also been repeatedly named as the most trusted news personality in the country. – YA, GMA News