Mark Leviste, napamura habang ipinagtatanggol Josh Aquino
- Former Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste strongly defended Josh Aquino following the controversy surrounding a viral podcast
- Josh is the eldest son of Kris Aquino and someone Mark personally knows and loves
- Mark expressed his anger through a strongly worded statement, condemning the remarks made about Josh
- He also warned those involved that an apology must be accompanied by accountability and genuine efforts to prevent a similar incident
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Former Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste expressed his anger over a viral podcast in which Josh Aquino, the eldest son of Kris Aquino who has special needs, became the subject of jokes.
Source: Instagram
On Wednesday, October 14, Mark took to social media to speak out against the remarks made about Josh, stressing that the issue was personal to him. He began his post by explaining why he rarely expresses anger publicly.
“I rarely speak out of anger on social media, but this is personal.”
Mark also revealed that he first learned about the controversy through his current girlfriend, Aira Lopez, whom he asked to explain what had happened to Josh. Mark, who previously had a romantic relationship with Kris, said he could not contain his anger after hearing the story. He added that he asked Aira for permission to express his feelings publicly and thanked her for understanding and respecting his decision.
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“Nung nabalitaan ko kanina na may isyu involving Kuya Josh (Aquino) tinanong ko kay @ranglopez kung ano ang nangyari. She told me the story, and I couldn’t contain my anger! Nagpaalam ako (kay Aira) na ilalabas ko ang aking saloobin, at nagpapasalamat ako sa kanya dahil nauunawaan niya ako at iginagalang ang aking damdamin.
Mark then emphasized his personal relationship with Josh, describing the latter as someone he loves like his own son. He also highlighted Josh's positive qualities and explained why the remarks were hurtful to those who care about him.
“I know #KuyaJosh personally. I love him like my own son, and my children love him like their own older brother. He is one of the kindest, sweetest, prayerful, and most loving people you will ever meet. Sinuman ang tunay na nakakakilala sa kanya ay mauunawaan kung bakit labis na nakasasakit sa aming mga nagmamahal sa kanya ang mga binitiwang salita tungkol sa kanya.
To call him 'walang kuwenta' and mock him publicly is absolutely unacceptable! T@ng ina!!! Wala akong nakikitang ka-machohan at katawatawa sa mga inasal ng mga nang-insulto kay Kuya Josh!”
The former vice governor also called out the podcast hosts, stressing that freedom of expression should not be used to justify humiliating someone, particularly because of a disability.
“You may call yourselves comedians or podcasters, but freedom of expression does not exempt you from accountability! There’s a difference between making people laugh and turning someone into a laughingstock. When your foolish words and slapstick humor demean someone, especially because of his disability, you cross a line that should never, ever be crossed!”
Mark further declared that he would stand up for Josh just as he would defend his own children. He made it clear that he would not remain silent while someone he loves was being treated unfairly.
“Ipagtatanggol ko si Kuya Josh, gaya ng pagtatanggol ko sa sarili kong mga anak! Hindi ako mananahimik kapag ang isang taong mahal ko ay tinatrato nang ganito!”
He also issued a strong message to those responsible, urging them to take the controversy seriously and not mistake Josh's gentle nature for weakness. Mark emphasized that the public's outrage should not simply be dismissed once the issue fades from the headlines.
“To the people responsible, take this fcuk1ng seriously!! Do not mistake the gentleness of Kuya Josh for weakness. And do not mistake the public’s outrage for something that will simply disappear once the issue dies down.
An apology is only the beginning. Take full responsibility for what you said, apologize sincerely to Kuya Josh and his family, and demonstrate through your actions that you understand the harm you have caused. Siguraduhin nyo hindi na mauulit to!!”
Mark concluded his statement with an emotional message of love and support for Josh, assuring him that the people who know and care for him would continue to stand by his side.
“Kuya, you are loved. You are valued. And you will never have to face this world alone. Those of us who know your heart, and know you by heart will continue to stand by you.
Mahal kita!”
Kris Aquino is a prominent Philippine television host, actress, and producer from a well-known political family. She is the youngest child of the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and former President Corazon Aquino, and the sister of former President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III. Known as the “Queen of All Media,” she has hosted numerous shows and starred in hit horror films such as “Feng Shui” and “Sukob.”
Boy Abunda shared his thoughts on “Fast Talk with Boy Abunda” after a podcast clip featuring Josh and comparisons with his brother, Bimby, circulated online. He criticized the remarks against Josh, stressing that people with disabilities should never be belittled. Boy also recalled visiting Kris Aquino and shared how Josh reportedly contributes to their household. He said the incident should raise awareness about respecting persons with disabilities.
Meanwhile, Kris’ close friend Dindo Balares came to Josh’s defense after the latter was called “walang kuwenta” on a viral podcast. The retired journalist posted a photo with Josh, describing him as gentle, loving, and respectful. He also recognized those who willingly look after Josh whenever Kris travels abroad for medical treatment. Dindo advised Kris to leave the matter to her lawyers to spare herself from unnecessary stress.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
