NBI Issues Subpoenas to ‘Machong Chismisan’ Hosts Following Bullying ControversyThe National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has officially issued subpoenas to the hosts of the controversial podcast “Machong Chismisan” following widespread public indignation over derogatory remarks directed at Joshua “Josh” Aquino, the eldest son of actress Kris Aquino.
The order requires the five podcast hosts to present themselves before the bureau’s Cybercrime Division on Tuesday, October 20, to shed light on potential legal violations surrounding online harassment and disability rights.
According to NBI Director Melvin Matibag, investigators are looking into potential charges under Republic Act No. 9442 (the law amending the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 (RA 10175) and cyberlibel.
Under Philippine law, deliberate public mockery, vilification, and discrimination against persons with disabilities (PWDs) carry strict civil and criminal penalties, provisions that apply equally to digital content creators and traditional broadcasters.
The swift intervention by state investigators signals a growing effort to enforce accountability across independent podcasting and digital content creation in the Philippines.
(Photo source: CTTO)
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