MANILA — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has summoned the individuals behind the “Machong Chismisan” podcast over controversial remarks directed at Josh Aquino, the son of actress and television host Kris Aquino.
The bureau ordered the podcast members to present themselves at the NBI office on Tuesday, October 20, at staggered schedules to address potential violations of the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, combined with provisions of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
Speaking to reporters in Manila, NBI Director Melvin Matibag confirmed that formal notices have been dispatched.
“Kahapon nagpadala na kami ng subpoena doon sa mga miyembro ng podcast na ‘yan. ‘Yung dalawa sa kanila, especially ‘yung pinaka-principal na nagsalita, na-receive na ‘yung subpoena,” Matibag said.
The controversy erupted following the release—and subsequent deletion—of a podcast episode titled “Ang Pagbabalik Ni Kris Aquino.” During the broadcast, the hosts faced heavy criticism for making derogatory comments about Josh’s disability and comparing him unfavorably to his younger brother, Bimby.
Amid the mounting public backlash, the podcast creators pulled down the episode and issued a public apology to the Aquino family. Furthermore, The Pod Network promptly severed its professional ties by terminating the program’s contract.
Despite these remedial actions, Matibag stressed that an apology does not absolve individuals of potential criminal liabilities arising from their statements.
“Hindi kasi nagiging sapat ‘yung pag hingi ng tawad para ‘yung criminal responsibility ay mabura. Hindi tayo magsasabi nu’n. Sa korte natin dadalhin ‘yan, ano. Sa proseso natin dadalhin ‘yan,” he stated.
Matibag added that the investigation has also drawn backing from various advocacy groups championing the rights of persons with special needs.
Veteran talk show host Boy Abunda, a close and long-standing confidant of the Aquino family, earlier expressed strong support for Josh, noting that he would advise Kris to pursue legal recourse against the commentators if consulted.
Meanwhile, Kris Aquino shared on social media that she consciously chose to withhold any formal reaction to what she termed “irresponsible & uninformed opinions,” explaining that she refused to grant the hosts the “word war” they were seemingly trying to provoke.