It has received widespread condemnation from different personalities and groups.
Hours after issuing their initial statement, podcast network The Pod Network Entertainment (TPN) announce that they have terminated their contract with Machong Chismisan.
“We have formally terminated our contract with the Machong Chismisan podcast, and are consequently removing the show from the network, effective immediately,” the company said.
The move is in response to the controversial episode of the said digital program, where hosts poked fun at Josh Aquino — the son of Queen of All Media, Kris Aquino.
During the segment, they were comparing him with his younger brother, Bimby Aquino, whom they called as the “good child,” while Josh was not described as such and was even described as “walang kwenta.”
Instead, one of the co-hosts brought up a claim that the latter gets a PHP3,000 allowance for school, which became one host’s precursor to a joke of the other: “Tapos nakatunganga lang siyang ganoon!”
Later on, one host called out the statement of his co-hosts, calling it a “low blow.”
POSSIBLE CRIMINAL LIABILITY
Groups like the Autism Society Philippines have since issued a reminder to all content creators and podcasters regarding Republic Act No. 7277, or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons. They also emphasized Republic Act No. 9442, where it was also stated that the public ridicule and vilification of persons with disabilities are prohibited, with violations leading to fines or imprisonment.
Meanwhile, through Fast Talk With Boy Abunda, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) chief Melvin Matibag expressed that they are now looking into that specific angle.
“Today, I am directing our CCD (Cybercrime Division) and SAU (Special Action Unit) to investigate and file appropriate charges against those who mocked him, in accordance with the law,” he said.
He noted that as head of the law enforcement bureau, he cannot turn a blind eye to such acts.
“It is my legal and moral duty to uphold justice for Josh, his family, and all persons with special needs who deserve respect, dignity, and compassion,” Matibag added.
APOLOGY FROM THE PODCAST
Meanwhile, in a statement on Thursday, October 14, Machong Chismisan expressed their apology and message of taking accountability for their actions.
“To Ms. Kris Aquino, Josh, and the entire Aquino family whom we have hurt and aggrieved, we offer our sincerest apologies,” they said.
“We take full accountability for our actions and behavior during the episode. We acknowledge that our conduct was inexcusable, deeply insensitive, and hurtful. We recognize the impact of our actions, and we do not wish to make excuses for the harm we have caused.”
They also directed a message for the families and individuals who share the experience of loving and caring for children with special needs, as well as community of persons with disabilities, and the general public.
“[W]e extend our heartfelt apologies as well. We recognize that our actions were not only hurtful to the Aquino family but also deeply disrespectful to the dignity and experiences of many others,” they stated.
They also noted that they have “proactively taken down” all content related to the episode.
“We understand that removing the content does not undo the harm we have caused, but we hope this action demonstrates our sincere remorse and our commitment to being accountable for our mistake,” the podcast furthered.
They also expressed their willingness to work with organizations and advocates dedicated to protecting the rights, dignity, and welfare of children with special needs and persons with disabilities.
Machong Chismisan also said that they are open to learning from the Autism Society Philippines, the National Council on Disability Affairs, legislators, public officials, members of the entertainment industry, and other advocates who have called for greater awareness and sensitivity on this issue.
“Kami po ay lubos na nagsisisi at taos-pusong humihingi ng kapatawaran sa aming mga pagkukulang at pagkakamali. Buong puso po naming tinatanggap ang aming pananagutan sa aming mga naging kilos at pananalita,” they added.
