Philippines warns content creators over disability mockery after podcast backlash

The Philippines’ department of social welfare and development (DSWD) has warned content creators against mocking persons with disabilities following backlash over a comedy podcast episode that ridiculed Joshua “Josh” Aquino, the son of television personality Kris Aquino.

The controversy has also prompted The Pod Network (TPN) to terminate its contract with Machong Chismisan, removing the show from its network with immediate effect. The incident has renewed calls for greater accountability among podcasters, producers and publishers over how online entertainment portrays vulnerable communities.

“Every individual with a disability, including those on the autism spectrum or with neurodevelopmental conditions, deserves dignity, respect, privacy, and the utmost care. Exploiting a person’s disability for amusement, ridicule, or online engagement is unacceptable, as it reinforces harmful stereotypes and drives discrimination against a vulnerable group,” said DSWD spokesperson and assistant secretary Irene Dumlao.

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The department’s statement followed the circulation of a recording from an episode uploaded on 5 October, which was subsequently deleted. During the episode, a host identified as Tito P compared Josh with his brother, Bimby Aquino, saying: “Si Bimby sobrang okay na anak, si Josh walang kwenta eh” (“Bimby is such a good son, while Josh is useless”).

The remarks drew criticism from netizens and disability advocates, with Josh publicly known to be on the autism spectrum. Other podcast hosts were also criticised for laughing at the comments.

Dumlao called on content creators to exercise greater responsibility when discussing vulnerable groups, including people whose disabilities may not be immediately apparent.

“We urge all content creators to exercise responsibility in discussing topics that make fun and violate the rights of vulnerable sectors such as persons with disabilities, whether it is apparent or non-apparent. We need to protect their dignity not only as an act of compassion but also as part of upholding their human rights,” she added.

The fallout has extended beyond the podcast's removal. Disability advocates have called for accountability across the content production process, arguing that responsibility does not rest solely with the individuals making the remarks.

Senator Joel Villanueva also said removing the episode was insufficient on its own, stressing that content creators and production companies should recognise their influence and establish clear standards before material is published.

Following the backlash, Tito P said in a Facebook post that he had reached out to those affected and wanted to apologise in person.

The podcast subsequently issued a further apology to Kris, Josh and the Aquino family, as well as families caring for children with special needs, persons with disabilities and the wider public. It said it accepted responsibility for its actions, had removed all content related to the episode and was willing to work with disability rights organisations and advocates to improve awareness and sensitivity.

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