Machong Chismisan apologizes to Kris Aquino's family following backlash: 'We take full accountability'
The Machong Chismisan podcast has issued a public apology to Kris Aquino’s family over its offensive remarks about Josh Aquino in a now-deleted episode of the show.
"We take full accountability for our actions and behavior during the episode," the hosts said in a statement on Oct. 15. "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."
Apart from the Aquino family, they also extended an apology to families of children with special needs, the PWD community, and the general public.
"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 added.
In taking accountability, Machong Chismisan said it removed all content related to the episode.
They also expressed willingness to work with organizations and advocates to promote the rights and welfare of children with special needs and persons with disabilities, including the Autism Society Philippines and the National Council on Disability Affairs.
"Beyond expressing our deep remorse, we recognize that accountability must be accompanied by meaningful action, a willingness to listen, and a genuine commitment to learning and doing better. We are grateful for the opportunity to reflect on our actions and, where possible, make amends through concrete and responsible steps," it added.
Machong Chismisan reiterated its sincere apologies to the Aquino family, particularly Kris Aquino and Josh, expressing remorse for its actions and words and acknowledging that an apology alone cannot undo the hurt caused.
"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. Sa Pamilyang Aquino, lalo na po kina Ms. Kris Aquino at Josh, kami po ay taos-pusong humihingi ng tawad," it said.
"Nauunawaan po naming hindi sapat ang paghingi ng paumanhin upang mabura ang sakit na aming naidulot, ngunit umaasa po kaming maipakita sa pamamagitan ng aming mga susunod na hakbang ang aming tunay na pagsisisi at kahandaang matuto at magbago," it concluded.
NBI to probe, file charges vs Machong Chismisan hosts
On the same day, National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag said that he has instructed the agency's Cybercrime Division and Special Action Unit to "investigate and file appropriate charges" against the hosts, as required by law.
"As head of a law enforcement bureau, I 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 said in a text message to Boy Abunda.
The Machong Chismisan episode titled “Ang Pagbabalik ni Kris Aquino,” published on Oct. 5, featured a discussion in which the hosts made derogatory remarks about Josh and his disability.
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