MANILA, Philippines — Machong Chismisan host Tito P did not appear before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on October 20, 2026, after his lawyer cited concerns that attending the proceedings could aggravate his reported mental health conditions. The absence comes as authorities investigate the podcast’s controversial remarks about Joshua “Josh” Aquino, the son of actress Kris Aquino.
According to reports by GMA News and the Daily Tribune, Tito P’s lawyer submitted a letter explaining that his client could not attend because of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder. The letter, however, reportedly did not include a medical certificate confirming the conditions.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the investigation would proceed even if some of the individuals summoned failed to appear. Investigators can examine the podcast episode and the circumstances surrounding its publication as they determine the appropriate next steps.
Only One Host Appears Before the NBI
Of the five Machong Chismisan hosts summoned, content creator Daniel Lawrence Vivar appeared at the NBI office in Pasay City with his lawyer. He declined to comment to reporters.
Tito P, meanwhile, was represented by counsel. The NBI has also indicated that it intends to examine the role of the podcast’s production team, including those involved in preparing and approving the controversial episode.
The investigation is looking into possible violations of Republic Act No. 7277, as amended by Republic Act No. 9442, or the Magna Carta for Persons with Disability. Authorities are also examining whether other applicable laws may have been violated. No final determination of criminal liability has been announced.
What Sparked the Josh Aquino Controversy?
The controversy erupted after an episode of Machong Chismisan titled “Ang Pagbabalik Ni Kris Aquino” was released on October 5. The discussion included disparaging remarks about Josh, who is on the autism spectrum, prompting criticism from viewers and disability-rights advocates.
The backlash intensified as clips and reports about the episode circulated online. Critics argued that the remarks were demeaning and reinforced harmful attitudes toward persons with disabilities.
The podcast subsequently removed the episode and issued an apology. The Pod Network also announced on October 15 that it was terminating its contract with the show, which later became unavailable on Spotify, according to GMA News.
NBI Investigation Continues Despite the Absence
The NBI’s inquiry gained momentum after Director Matibag publicly expressed concern over the remarks and directed the bureau’s Cybercrime Division and Special Action Unit to investigate.
The Daily Tribune reported that the NBI also planned to summon the podcast’s producers to determine their involvement in the episode’s release. Investigators established that the episode was recorded on September 30 and published on October 5.
The issue has also drawn attention to the responsibilities of online content creators and production teams when discussing people with disabilities. The investigation will need to establish the relevant facts, the roles of the individuals involved, and whether the evidence supports any legal action.
What Happens Next?
Tito P’s reported health concerns and his absence from the scheduled proceedings do not, by themselves, resolve the allegations surrounding the podcast episode. The NBI has said it can continue evaluating the available material, while the question of any potential criminal liability remains subject to the legal process.
For now, the case underscores a wider public debate about responsible online commentary, disability inclusion, and accountability in digital media. The next developments will depend on the NBI’s findings and any formal legal action that may follow.
