May Tinutukoy ba si Bitoy? A formalist Analysis on How Political Correctness enters the Post-Pandemic Parody Songs of Micheal V.

Abstract

Parody is one of the most visible forms of comedy on Philippine television, reworking existing cultural texts into new humorous productions. Bakhtin’s concept of the carnivalesque provides a useful framework for understanding parody because it highlights laughter, role play, and temporary disruptions of dominant ideas and authority. Meanwhile, growing discussions about political correctness have prompted renewed scrutiny of comedic practices, including the parody performances of veteran television comedian Michael V. This study served as a preliminary investigation of how political correctness appears within popular cultural productions of parody. Specifically, it examined how Michael V acknowledges political correctness in his post-pandemic parody songs. Using a qualitative descriptive approach guided by Helitzer and Shatz’s six elements of humor and employing formalist analysis through Bakhtin’s carnivalesque lens, the study analyzed lyrics from parody songs originally aired on Bubble Gang. Findings revealed that although the songs followed the lyrical structures of their original counterparts, they still expressed the parody maker’s distinct perspectives through altered lyrics and humor. The songs conveyed perceived truths and implied resistance to prevailing ideas. Political correctness was suggested through restraints that avoided directly mocking specific sectors, though individual ridicule could still be misinterpreted. Furthermore, portrayals of political correctness remained largely informal rather than explicit. Overall, the study contributes to scholarship on parody and Filipino comedy, highlighting the need for further academic discussion of media-powered popular culture, comedic expression, audience interpretation, cultural negotiation, social values, public discourse, creative resistance, humor studies, television narratives, and contemporary media practices today.