‘Irresponsible, offensive’: Broadcast group condemns anchor’s on-air joke
MANILA, Philippines — A rape joke aired on a Bacolod radio program has drawn condemnation from the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas, the industry group, which said public airwaves must not be used to trivialize sexual violence or demean women.
In a statement Friday, May 22, the KBP condemned the "irresponsible and offensive" remark made by K5 News FM Bacolod 101.5 anchor Jean Paul Generoso toward a female journalist during his program "11MBPS."
"Rape jokes are never acceptable. They are reprehensible as they trivialize sexual violence, degrade women, and reduce them to objects of ridicule and male fantasy. Such remarks perpetuate disrespect and insensitivity toward survivors of abuse," KBP said.
The remark was made while the female journalist was reporting on a local abuse case.
Generoso drew backlash from media groups, including the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, the Negros Press Club and the Presidential Task Force on Media Security. Gabriela Women’s Party also condemned the remark.
Public airwaves as public trust
KBP said Generoso is not affiliated with the organization, but stressed that gender sensitivity and respect are expected of anyone with access to public airwaves.
"We call on all broadcasters and media practitioners who use the airwaves, a public trust, to exercise responsibility, professionalism, and sensitivity in both language and conduct," KBP said.
"Broadcasting carries immense influence and responsibility. The airwaves are not merely platforms for entertainment or personal opinion; they are public trust and must be used with discernment, fairness, and accountability," it added.
KBP also urged the National Telecommunications Commission to strengthen accountability mechanisms in the communications sector.
Generoso has since issued an apology through the Facebook page of K5 News FM Bacolod 101.5, though the statement did not mention concrete steps to address the incident.
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