Netizens call on Phillip Salvador to defend son Josh Aquino against 'Machong Chismisan' remarks

Netizens are calling on Phillip Salvador, the father of Josh Aquino, to speak up and defend him following the controversial remarks made on the "Machong Chismisan" podcast.

The issue stemmed from the episode titled "Ang Pagbabalik Ni Kris Aquino," in which the hosts mocked Josh by comparing him with his younger brother, Bimby, and commenting on his disability.

On GMA News' Facebook post about Mark Leviste, Kris Aquino's ex-boyfriend who came to the defense of Josh, netizens shared their thoughts on Phillip.

"Everybody is standing up for Josh Aquino except the Father," a netizen said.

"That Ipe has no reaction so far. He didn't provide child support, and even just to defend his son Josh, we don't hear from him," another netizen said in the same post.

["'Yong Ipe wala pang reaction. 'Di na kumikibo sa sustento, kahit man lang ipagtanggol ang anak niyang si Josh, 'di pa rin natin mapakinggan."]

"What now Philip, you're so quiet. Other people go out of their way to defend Josh," a netizen said.

["So ano na Phillip, tahimik ka lang. 'Yung ibang tao nagkakagulo na sa pagtanggol kay Josh.]

Netizens also commented on an art card showing Boy Abunda's quote condemning the podcast.

"Good on Boy Abunda for reacting right away, but Phillip has not said anything," they said.

["Buti pa si Boy Abunda nag-react agad pero si Phillip wala lang."]

"It's the father who has no contribution, not Josh. They don't even ask anything from you," a netizen said.

["'Yong tatay ang walang pakinabang hindi si josh, hindi naman nanghihingi sa inyo."

"I wonder what Phillip's reaction will be… that will be something to watch out for," another netizen said.

["Ano kaya reaksyon ni Phillip nito...ito maganda abangan."]

Meanwhile, other netizens said that the podcasters need to be prepared should Phillip make a statement.

"Be ready for Phillip if he becomes a senator judge," a netizen said.

["Yari 'yun kay Phillip kong 'pag naging senador judge."]

"Beware of Phillip if he becomes president," another added.

["Patay kayo kay Philip kung mag-Presidente siya."]

"You've gone after the son of Phillip Salvador," a netizen said.

["Anak ni Philip Salvador 'yan inaaway n'yo."]

Following the backlash, "Machong Chismisan" took down the episode and apologized to those offended, the PWD community, and the people mentioned.

The Pod Network also terminated their contract with the podcast.

Several celebrities like Michael Leyva, Boy Abunda, Dingdong Dantes, Aiko Melendez, and more have released statements in support of Josh.

Lawmakers and advocacy groups have also condemned the hosts of the podcast over their remarks. —MGP, GMA News