The Pod Network terminates contract with Machong Chismisan podcast ‘effective immediately’

With all the recent backlash for the now infamous episode from local podcast Machong Chismisan “S29E20: Ang Pagbabalik ni Kris Aquino,” The Pod Network has decided to finally sever ties with the controversial podcast show and its hosts. In its statement posted on their social media account on October 15, Thursday, The Pod Network issued the following announcement,

“We have formally terminated our contract with the Machong Chismisan podcast, and are consequently removing the show from the network, effective immediately.”

The post comes on the heels of their previous statement the previous day where they acknowledge receiving feedback from concerned listeners and shared that they were still reviewing the said episode after taking it down. This statement was met with more backlash from netizens who called for immediate punishment for the show and its hosts. 

The Podcast Network statement last October 14 said,  “We have received concerns from listeners about remarks made about a person with a disability in a recent episode of Machong Chismisan.

“We take these concerns seriously. Persons with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals deserve dignity and respect, and that includes how they are talked about on our shows. We are sorry for the hust this has caused. 

“Our creators speak in their own voices, and their views do not reflect those of the network. But as the platform that carries their shows, we should still be mindful of what we share with the public. 

“We are aware of the episode in question. We are reviewing how this episode was published and strengthening our processes. The episode has been taken down while we review it. We are formalizing editorial guidelines across all TPN shows on how we handle disability, mental health, minors, and family members of public figures, and other sensitive topics. 

“To everyone who reached out; thank you for letting us know.”

First launched in 2023, The Pod Network’s official website states that it’s aim “is building a stronger podcast industry in the Philippines through creator-first support, full-service production, and data-driven advertising.”

The site also states that the company has grown to manage over 40 original Filipino podcasts spanning comedy, relationships, business, wellness, and culture. Included in its roster of local podcasts are The Bare It All podcast, The Kool Pals, Good Times With Mo, Philippine Campfire Stories, Lecheng Pag-Ibig Ito, and The RJ Ledesma podcast, among others.