NBI Director Melvin Matibag orders investigation on Machong Chismisan hosts

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag shared that he has directed the Cybercrime Division and Special Action Unit to investigate and file appropriate charges against the Machong Chismisan hosts. This comes after the now-deleted episode of the podcast where the host made fun of Josh Aquino who is a special needs individual. 

While the episode has since then been deleted, netizens were able to grab a recording of the episode which has been posted on various social media platforms. The netizens have expressed their disappointment and anger over the comments made by the podcast hosts. 

In a text message sent to Boy Abunda, the NBI Director expressed how “deeply moved and saddened” he was following the video going viral on social media. 

“I watched your video about Josh and was deeply moved and saddened. Today, I am directing our CCD (Cybercrime Division) and SAU (Special Action Unit) to investigate and file appropriate charges against those who mocked him, in accordance with the law,” he shared.

He maintained that it is his duty as the NBI Director to uphold justice not only for Josh but for everyone who has special needs.

“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,” he ended. 

The NBI Director is just one of the many personalities that have spoken up and expressed their support for Josh. Previously, Boy advised Josh’s mom, Kris Aquino, to file a case against the podcast hosts, citing Republic Act 9442 or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons.

Meanwhile, the hosts of Machong Chismisan have released a statement and publicly apologized to Josh and the Aquino family for the insensitive remarks they’ve made in the now-deleted episode. 

“To Ms. Kris Aquino, Josh, and the entire Aquino family whom we have hurt and aggrieved, we offer our sincerest apologies. We take full accountability for our actions and behavior during the episode. 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,” the hosts expressed.