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Kanal Humor in the Philippines

Kanal humor is a concept in jokes that is deeply rooted in the experiences and socio-economic backgrounds of Filipinos. The term “kanal” literally refers to the sewers, which are often associated with filth in poverty. In the Philippines, this is a huge part of Filipino comedy, as the majority of the citizens do not come from a high-class profile and use kanal humor to lighten their situation. Kanal humor applies self-deprecating jokes, touches on social issues, and mixes with online culture.

Origins and Evolution

The word “kanal” translates to “the sewers,” which is a waterway that carries waste from congested urban areas to respective treatment facilities. As it reflects the state of impoverished communities, the term also comes with negative connotations that are used to throw at someone. “Kanal” has been linked with behaviors that lack the act of basic decency in the actions of people in their everyday lives. One of the common phrases thrown at someone who exudes this personality is “ugaling kanal” or “kanal behavior,” which signifies a lapse in interpersonal conduct.

However, colloquially, “kanal humor” has undergone a transformation in definition. From being derogatory, this became a symbol of self-expression and cultural identity. Within the framework of sociolinguistics, kanal humor emerges as a sosyolek, meaning it is a variety of language originating from marginalized communities. This represents a culture driven from shared experiences and values, which shows a sense of solidarity when kanal humor is conversed effectively.

Characteristics and Expression

Kanal humor is described as the raw, unfiltered, and profane area of linguistics that reflects the authenticity of everyday life in marginalized communities. It features a wide range of comedic expressions, from witty wordplays to exaggerated gestures fused with slangs that came from urban trends. Terms used are often derived from everyday struggles of Filipinos, resilience, and ambitious hopes for oneself that reflects the realities of urban poverty.

Kanal humor is prevalent in the digital age, particularly in widely used social media platforms like Facebook, X, and TikTok. Popular content creators, like Sassa Gurl and Queen Dura, are known for their content that project kanal humor in their skits, jokes, and even them as a character. Creators like their portrayals changed the meaning of “kanal” from being a derogatory connotation to a source of pride and color that represents the Philippines.

Contemporary Examples

Online platforms and mainstream media can be seen with influences from kanal humor. Filipino television show “Can’t Buy Me Love” features a side character named “Snoop”, portrayed by Anthony Jennings, where he embodies the essence of kanal humor by his street smart attitude and sharp wit. With his on-screen pair, Maris Racal as “Irene”, showcases the main difference between “kanal humor” and “air-con humor” which shows the diversity in cultures within the Filipino society.

Recently, in Asia Artist Awards 2023, host Melai Cantiveros received her Best Actor Award in a witty manner. Appearing in a formal yet extravagant pink gown, she voiced out “If someone questions why I have an award, don't worry. I question too. I just receive an award all my life from my mother and father when they are angry to me." Her humorous acceptance speech garnered applause and drawn out boisterous laughter from notable personalities like Filipino P-Pop group, SB19, and even K-Pop group, Stray Kids. This shows that kanal humor can be widely enjoyed and understood universally, no matter the context.

No matter the socio-economic barriers that Filipinos inevitably come across, kanal humor brings diverse people together with the ultimate goal of making people laugh. This fosters a sense of belonging or pride as a Filipino as it shapes the culture of the country in the contemporary world. Whether through viral memes, television programs, or everyday interactions, kanal humor serves as proof as to how resilience and creativity is manifested from its people.