‘No person is walang kwenta’: Groups, friends defend Josh Aquino amid podcast controversy
In the Philippines, a controversy arose after Josh Aquino, the son of celebrity Kris Aquino, was mocked on a podcast called Machong Chismisan. During an episode on October 5, the host referred to Josh as 'walang kwenta' (useless), leading to widespread criticism. The episode was later removed, and the podcast's contract with The Pod Network was terminated. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin Matibag announced that an investigation into the podcast's hosts would be launched. Public figures, including Boy Abunda, defended Josh and condemned the remarks as discriminatory and illegal under the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons. Abunda urged Kris Aquino to pursue legal action against the podcasters.
A Philippine podcast has drawn widespread criticism after its hosts reportedly mocked Josh Aquino, the son of celebrity Kris Aquino, using disparaging language. The incident occurred during an episode of Machong Chismisan, released on October 5, where host Tito P referred to Josh as “walang kwenta” (useless). The episode was later removed, but the controversy sparked immediate backlash from the public, advocacy groups, and notable figures. The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has launched an inquiry into the incident. Director Melvin Matibag issued a subpoena on October 15, requiring the podcast hosts to appear before the agency on October 20. Matibag confirmed via text message to television host Boy Abunda that the NBI's cybercrime division and special action unit would investigate the hosts and pursue legal action. Boy Abunda expressed deep concern over the remarks, appearing on his program Fast Talk With Boy Abunda to condemn the comments. He described the hosts' actions as a violation of both divine and human laws, emphasizing that their behavior was harmful not only to Josh’s family but to all families of individuals with disabilities. Abunda urged Kris Aquino to consider pressing charges under Republic Act 7277, the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, which prohibits public ridicule of disabled individuals. Mark Leviste, former partner of Kris Aquino, also voiced his support for Josh, describing him as kind, prayerful, and loving. He stated that anyone who truly knows Josh understands his character and values. The controversy led to the termination of Machong Chismisan's contract with The Pod Network, effective immediately. Government agencies have warned creators about the need for respectful content, noting that mocking individuals with disabilities amounts to discrimination and violates their dignity. Public reaction has been swift, with netizens calling on Phillip Salvador, Josh’s father, to respond to the situation. Advocacy groups have joined calls for accountability, stressing the broader implications of the incident for society’s treatment of people with disabilities.
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In the Philippines, a controversy arose after Josh Aquino, the son of celebrity Kris Aquino, was mocked on a podcast called Machong Chismisan. During an episode on October 5, the host referred to Josh as 'walang kwenta' (useless), leading to widespread criticism. The episode was later removed, and the podcast's contract with The Pod Network was terminated. National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin Matibag announced that an investigation into the podcast's hosts would be launched. Public figures, including Boy Abunda, defended Josh and condemned the remarks as discriminatory and illegal under the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons. Abunda urged Kris Aquino to pursue legal action against the podcasters.
Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives, including condemnation from public figures and legal implications, without overtly favoring any side. It reports on public reaction, legal actions, and calls for accountability without clear ideological bias.
The article discusses netizens urging Phillip Salvador to defend his son, Josh Aquino, against comments labeled as 'Machong Chismisan.' The term 'Machong Chismisan' appears to be a local phrase used to describe someone who spreads rumors or engages in gossip. The situation has sparked online discussions, prompting calls for Phillip Salvador to address the issue publicly.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a general overview of public sentiment without explicitly favoring any side. It does not include biased language, one-sided sourcing, or editorializing that would indicate a clear ideological lean.
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