Mark Leviste defends Kris Aquino’s son Josh

MANILA — Mark Leviste turned to social media to defend Joshua “Josh” Aquino, the son of his former girlfriend Kris Aquino, who was mocked by hosts of podcast Machong Chismisan.

On late Wednesday, Leviste shared that he asked his current girlfriend Aira Lopez about the issue and admitted that he could not contain his anger after hearing the story.

Leviste, who expressed his love for Josh as his own son, described him as “one of the kindest, sweetest, most prayerful, and loving people you will ever meet.”

“Sinuman ang tunay na nakakakilala sa kanya ay mauunawaan kung bakit labis na nakasasakit sa aming mga nagmamahal sa kanya ang mga binitiwang salita tungkol sa kanya,” Leviste added.

Leviste then expressed anger for targeting and mocking Josh publicly. He also condemned the hosts stressing that there’s difference between making people laugh and belittling someone.  

“To call him ‘walang kwenta’ and mock him publicly is absolutely unacceptable! Ta*g i*a!!! Wala akong nakikitang ka-machohan at katawatawa sa mga inasal ng mga nang-insulto kay Kuya Josh! You may call yourselves comedians or podcasters, but freedom of expression does not exempt you from accountability! There’s a difference between making people laugh and turning someone into a laughingstock. When your foolish words and slapstick humor demean someone, especially because of his disability, you cross a line that should never be crossed!” Leviste said.

Leviste also shared that he will defend Josh like how he defends his own children.

“Hindi ako mananahimik kapag ang isang taong mahal ko ay tinatrato nang ganito! To the people responsible, take this f**king seriously!! Do not mistake the gentleness of Kuya Josh for weakness. And do not mistake the public’s outrage for something that will simply disappear once the issue dies down,” he said.

Before ending his post, Leviste demanded those who are responsible to take full responsibility.  

“An apology is only the beginning. Take full responsibility for what you said, apologize sincerely to Kuya Josh and his family, and demonstrate through your actions that you understand the harm you have caused. Siguraduhin nyo hindi na mauulit to!!,” he said.

“Kuya, you are loved. You are valued. And you will never have to face this world alone. Those of us who know your heart, and know you by heart will continue to stand by you ❤️ Mahal kita! 🫰🏻,” Leviste concluded.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday,  Tito P explained what happened and revealed that he already reached out to those who were affected as he wants to apologize in person.

As of writing, Kris Aquino has yet to make a statement about the issue. Josh is Kris’s son with actor Philip Salvador.