NBI investigates Machong Chismisan hosts over disability ridicule

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is investigating the hosts of the podcast ‘Machong Chismisan’ following controversial remarks made about Joshua Aquino, the son of Kris Aquino. The investigation focuses on potential violations of the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 and Republic Act No. 9442, which prohibits the public ridicule and vilification of persons with disabilities.

During an October 5 episode, hosts reportedly made derogatory comments regarding Joshua, who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One host, Philipp Joshua de Leon, known as Tito P, was among those subpoenaed. De Leon failed to appear at the NBI proceedings on October 20, with his lawyer submitting a letter citing concerns that the appearance could aggravate his reported bipolar disorder and ADHD.

Disability advocates have questioned the absence, noting that no medical documentation was attached to the letter. NBI Director Melvin Matibag stated that the investigation will proceed using the podcast recording as evidence regardless of the hosts' attendance. The controversy has already led to commercial consequences, including the podcast being removed from Spotify and the Pod Network cutting ties with the show.