Comedy podcast Machong Chismisan has issued a public apology to Kris Aquino and her family following the controversial remarks made by its hosts about her eldest son, Josh.
In a statement released on Thursday, Oct. 15, the podcast expressed remorse over its hosts’ comments in a now-deleted episode that drew widespread criticism for allegedly mocking Josh, who is on the autism spectrum.
The hosts acknowledged that their behavior during the episode was “inexcusable, deeply insensitive, and hurtful,” taking full responsibility for the harm caused to the Aquino family and the community of persons with disabilities (PWDs).
“We take full accountability for our actions and behavior during the episode. […] We recognize the impact of our actions, and we do not wish to make excuses for the harm we have caused,” the statement read.
“To the families and individuals who share the experience of loving and caring for children with special needs, to the broader community of persons with disabilities, and to the general public, we extend our heartfelt apologies as well,” they added. “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.”
The hosts said they had removed all content related to the controversial episode, while acknowledging that doing so would not undo the harm caused.
“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 hosts explained.
They also expressed willingness to work with organizations and advocates to promote the rights and dignity of children with special needs and PWDs, including learning from groups and individuals who had called them out over the incident.
“We are wholeheartedly willing to work with organizations and advocates dedicated to protecting the rights, dignity, and welfare of children with special needs and persons with disabilities,” they said.
Concluding their apology, the hosts reiterated their remorse in Filipino, directly addressing the Aquino family, particularly Kris and Josh.
“Sa Pamilyang Aquino, lalo na po kina Ms. Kris Aquino at Josh, kami po ay taos-pusong humihingi ng tawad. Nauunawaan po naming hindi sapat ang paghingi ng paumanhin upang mabura ang sakit na aming naidulot.”
The hosts expressed hope that their future actions would demonstrate their sincerity and willingness to learn from the controversy.
“Umaasa po kaming maipakita sa pamamagitan ng aming mga susunod na hakbang ang aming tunay na pagsisisi at kahandaang matuto at magbago,” their statement concluded.
