(

English English usually refers to: * English language * English people English may also refer to: Peoples, culture, and language * ''English'', an adjective for something of, from, or related to England ** English national ide ...

: "For Intelligent and Responsible Viewing") , employees = More than 33 , chief1_name = Diorella Maria Sotto-Antonio , chief1_position =

Chairperson The chairperson, also chairman, chairwoman or chair, is the presiding officer of an organized group such as a board, committee, or deliberative assembly. The person holding the office, who is typically elected or appointed by members of the grou ...

, agency_type =

Film A film also called a movie, motion picture, moving picture, picture, photoplay or (slang) flick is a work of visual art that simulates experiences and otherwise communicates ideas, stories, perceptions, feelings, beauty, or atmosphere ...

and

television Television, sometimes shortened to TV, is a telecommunication medium for transmitting moving images and sound. The term can refer to a television set, or the medium of television transmission. Television is a mass medium for advertisin ...

classification , parent_agency =

Office of the President of the Philippines The Office of the President of the Philippines (OP; fil, links=no, Tanggapan ng Pangulo ng Pilipinas), is an administrative, advisory, and consultative government agency that aids the president of the Philippines in performing their duty as he ...

, website = The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board ( fil, Lupon sa Rebyu at Klasipikasyon ng Pelikula at Telebisyon; abbreviated as MTRCB) is a Philippine

government agency A government or state agency, sometimes an appointed commission, is a permanent or semi-permanent organization in the machinery of government that is responsible for the oversight and administration of specific functions, such as an administrati ...

under the

that is responsible for the classification and review of

television program Television, sometimes shortened to TV, is a telecommunication medium for transmitting moving images and sound. The term can refer to a television set, or the medium of television transmission. Television is a mass medium for advertising, e ...

motion pictures A film also called a movie, motion picture, moving picture, picture, photoplay or (slang) flick is a work of visual art that simulates experiences and otherwise communicates ideas, stories, perceptions, feelings, beauty, or atmosphere ...

and

home video Home video is prerecorded media sold or rented for home viewing. The term originates from the VHS and Betamax era, when the predominant medium was videotapes, but has carried over to optical disc formats such as DVD, Blu-ray and streaming me ...

s. Unlike other organizations worldwide (such as the BBFC), the Board does not rate

video game Video games, also known as computer games, are electronic games that involves interaction with a user interface or input device such as a joystick, controller, keyboard, or motion sensing device to generate visual feedback. This fee ...

s. Thus, the

ESRB The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a self-regulatory organization that assigns age and content ratings to consumer video games in the United States and Canada. The ESRB was established in 1994 by the Entertainment Software Asso ...

system used in the

United States The United States of America (U.S.A. or USA), commonly known as the United States (U.S. or US) or America, is a country primarily located in North America. It consists of 50 states, a federal district, five major unincorporated territorie ...

is the ''

de facto ''De facto'' ( ; , "in fact") describes practices that exist in reality, whether or not they are officially recognized by laws or other formal norms. It is commonly used to refer to what happens in practice, in contrast with ''de jure'' ("by la ...

'' rating system used in the

Philippines The Philippines (; fil, Pilipinas, links=no), officially the Republic of the Philippines ( fil, Republika ng Pilipinas, links=no), * bik, Republika kan Filipinas * ceb, Republika sa Pilipinas * cbk, República de Filipinas * hil, Republ ...

, although there have been attempts at formulating an independent local rating system. Certain video game vendors ask for a valid ID or any other verification to be able to buy M- and AO-rated games. The Board also does not rate

literature Literature is any collection of written work, but it is also used more narrowly for writings specifically considered to be an art form, especially prose fiction, drama, and poetry. In recent centuries, the definition has expanded to include ...

. The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board also serves as a ''

censorship Censorship is the suppression of speech, public communication, or other information. This may be done on the basis that such material is considered objectionable, harmful, sensitive, or "inconvenient". Censorship can be conducted by governments ...

body.

History

In early 1994, MTRCB decided to censor footage from the film ''

Schindler's List ''Schindler's List'' is a 1993 American epic historical drama film directed and produced by Steven Spielberg and written by Steven Zaillian. It is based on the 1982 novel ''Schindler's Ark'' by Australian novelist Thomas Keneally. The film fo ...

'' depicting sex and nudity, with Chairperson Henrietta Mendez arguing that allowing the film's sex scenes to remain could result in "bigger problems in the future with similar scenes in other films." This led to director

Steven Spielberg Steven Allan Spielberg (; born December 18, 1946) is an American director, writer, and producer. A major figure of the New Hollywood era and pioneer of the modern blockbuster, he is the most commercially successful director of all time. Spie ...

withdrawing the film from distribution in the Philippines unless it is guaranteed an uncut release. The censorship of ''Schindler's List'' was heavily criticized, with actress and future MTRCB chairperson

Armida Siguion Reyna Armida Siguion-Reyna (born Armida Liwanag Ponce Enrile; November 4, 1930February 11, 2019) was a Filipina singer, film and stage actress, producer and television show host. She was the chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classific ...

castigating the agency for allowing the release of two films about a real-life murder (''The Elsa Castillo Story ... Ang Katotohanan'' and ''The Elsa Santos Castillo Story: The Chop Chop Lady'') while censoring a "powerful movie, which is inspiring, uplifting and humane." It has also led to renewed calls for MTRCB's disestablishment by Senators Raul Roco and

Orlando Mercado Orlando Mercado Rodríguez (born November 7, 1961) is a Puerto Rican former professional baseball player. He played all or parts of eight seasons in Major League Baseball with the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles D ...

, with Roco stating that "Such narrow-mindedness precisely shows the dangers of censorship." Roco, Mercado, and four other senators soon sponsored a Senate resolution seeking an inquiry into the agency's regulatory functions, stating that its actions "not only insult the intelligence of the local movie-going public but in effect send a wrong message to the world on Filipino tastes, sensibilities and appreciation for the cinematic arts..." On March 4, 1994,

Executive Secretary Secretary is a title often used in organizations to indicate a person having a certain amount of authority, power, or importance in the organization. Secretaries announce important events and communicate to the organization. The term is derived ...

Teofisto Guingona Teofisto "Tito" Tayko Guingona Jr. (born July 4, 1928) is a Filipino politician and diplomat who served as the 11th vice president of the Philippines from 2001 to 2004, during the first term of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Born in San ...

reversed the agency's decision upon his recommendations' approval by President

Fidel V. Ramos Fidel Valdez Ramos (, ; March 18, 1928 – July 31, 2022), popularly known as FVR and Eddie Ramos, was a Filipino general and politician who served as the 12th president of the Philippines from 1992 to 1998. He was the only career military ...

, which are to restore the film's censored scenes and lower the film's rating from R-18 to R-15 (despite the latter rating's nonexistence and retitling as R-16). ''Schindler's List'' was finally released in its entirety on March 9, 1994.

The Board

The chairman, the vice-chairman and the other 30 Board members compose the Board. Each one holds office for a term of one year but may be reappointed after the expiration of their term. Diorella Maria Sotto-Antonio is the current board chairman appointed since July 7, 2022.

List of board chairpersons

Classification ratings

Movies

While the MTRCB primarily rates most films released in commercial cinemas, independent and

art-house An art film (or arthouse film) is typically an independent film, aimed at a niche market rather than a mass market audience. It is "intended to be a serious, artistic work, often experimental and not designed for mass appeal", "made primarily f ...

films released in the Philippines are not rated by the MTRCB themselves and instead through the

Film Development Council of the Philippines The Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) is the national film agency under the Office of the President of the Philippines responsible for film policies and programs to ensure the economic, cultural and educational development of th ...

and the Film Cultural Exchange Program (FCEP), the films are rated through the FDCP rating system pursuant to the agreed-upon guidelines by the FDCP and the MTRCB.

Summary

The R-13, R-16, and R-18 ratings are legally restricted. All cinemas are required to check the ages of all patrons who wish to view such films in a cinema. Allowing underage viewers to watch such films is a violation of Philippine law and can be met with fines or other sanctions. The public exhibition of an "X-rated" film in the Philippines is a serious criminal offense.

=General Audience ("G")

= G Viewers of all ages are admitted. A "G" classification advises parents or supervising adults that the film is suitable for all audiences. A film classified as "G" shall, in the judgment of the Board, meet the following criteria: # ''Theme'' – The film should not contain violence, threat, abuse, horror, or other themes that may cause fear or disturbance to a young child's mind. # ''Language'' – The film may contain dialogue or other word representations beyond courteous language, but menacing, profane, offensive, and sexually-suggestive language or gestures shall not be allowed. # ''Nudity'' – The film may contain occasional, as well as natural non-sexual nudity. # ''Sex'' – The film cannot contain and depict sexual activity. # ''Violence'' – The depiction of any violence must be mild, brief, infrequent, and unlikely to cause undue anxiety or fear to young children. # ''Horror'' – The depiction of horror and frightening scenes should be mild, brief, infrequent, and unlikely to cause undue anxiety or fear to young children. # ''Drugs'' – There shall be no depiction of, or reference to, prohibited drugs or their use.

=Parental Guidance ("PG")

= PG Viewers below 13 years old should be accompanied by a parent or supervising adult. A "PG" classification advises parents or supervising adults that the film may contain any of the elements whose treatment is suitable for children below 13 years of age. A film classified as "PG" shall, in the judgment of the Board, meet the following criteria: # ''Theme'' – The film may contain themes that require parental supervision and guidance, but should not promote any dangerous, violent, discriminatory, or otherwise offensive behavior or attitude. # ''Language'' – The film may contain mild and infrequent swear words and menacing language. Offensive, menacing, threatening language and references to sex shall always be suitable for viewers who are below 13 years of age. Infrequent, brief and justifiable sexually-suggestive language may be allowed. # ''Nudity'' – The film may contain occasional, as well as natural non-sexual nudity. # ''Sex'' – The depiction of non-graphic sexual activity may be allowed, but it should be discreet, infrequent, and not prolonged. # ''Violence'' – The depiction of non-gratuitous violence and suffering should be minimal, and without graphic detail;. # ''Horror'' – The depiction of brief and infrequent horror and frightening scenes shall be allowed. # ''Drugs'' – There shall be no depiction of, or reference to, prohibited drugs or substances and their use.

=Restricted 13 ("R-13")

= R-13 Only viewers who are 13 years old and above can be admitted. An "R-13" classification advises parents, supervising adults, or the would-be viewers themselves, that the film may contain any of the elements that may not be suitable for children below 13 years of age. A film classified as "R-13" must, in the judgment of the Board, meet the following criteria: # ''Theme'' – The film may contain mature themes but is suitable for teenagers above 13 years of age, and shall not gratuitously promote or encourage any dangerous, violent, discriminatory, or otherwise offensive behavior or attitude. # ''Language'' – The film may contain moderate swear words and menacing language consistent with the context of the scene in which they are employed. The use of infrequent and non-vulgar strong swear words or sexually-derived or suggestive expletives and expressions as well as the use of swear words and expletives shall be allowed. The use of sexually-oriented or suggestive language and other references to sex shall always be suitable for viewers who are at least 13 years of age. # ''Nudity'' – The film may contain brief, discreet and justifiable occasional, natural and sexually-oriented nudity. # ''Sex'' – Discreet, infrequent, brief, non-graphic and justifiable sexual activity may be depicted. # ''Violence'' – Infrequent, non-gratuitous, non-graphic and justifiable violence may be allowed. # ''Horror'' – The justifiable depiction of horror, frightening scenes, and occasional gore are allowed. # ''Drugs'' – The movie shall not in any case promote, condone, justify and/or encourage drug use.

=Restricted–16 ("R-16")

= R-16 Only viewers who are 16 years old and above can be admitted. An "R-16" classification advises parents and supervising adults that the film may contain any of the elements that may not be suitable for children below 16 years of age. A film classified as "R-16" must, in the judgment of the Board, meet the following criteria: # ''Theme'' – There are no restrictions on themes; provided that the treatment is appropriate for viewers who are at least 16 years of age. # ''Language'' – The film may use any kind of language. # ''Nudity'' – The film may contain discreet, non-gratuitous and justifiable natural and sexually-oriented nudity. # ''Sex'' – Non-graphic, non-gratuitous and justifiable sexual activity may be depicted. # ''Violence'' – Non-gratuitous and justifiable violence and gore may be allowed. # ''Horror'' – The non-gratuitous and justifiable depiction of horror, frightening scenes, and gore are allowed. # ''Drugs'' – The non-gratuitous and justifiable depiction of drugs or their use may be allowed. The movie shall not in any case promote, condone, and encourage drug use.

=Restricted-18 ("R-18")

= R-18 Only viewers who are 18 years old and above can be admitted. An "R-18" classification advises viewers, parents, and supervising adults that the film may contain any of the elements that may not be suitable for children below 18 years of age. SM Cinema does not show films in their cinemas classified by this rating. An "R-18" rating does not mean that the film is "obscene", "offensive", or "pornographic," as these terms are defined by law. A film classified as "R-18" must, in the judgment of the Board, meet the following criteria: # ''Theme'' – There are no restrictions on themes and their treatment. # ''Language'' – The film may use any kind of justifiable language. # ''Nudity'' – The film may contain non-gratuitous and justifiable sexually-oriented nudity. # ''Sex'' – The realistic depiction of non-gratuitous and justifiable sexual activity may be allowed. # ''Violence'' – There are no restrictions on the depiction of non-gratuitous and justifiable violence. # ''Horror'' – The justifiable depiction of horror, frightening scenes, and gore are allowed. # ''Drugs'' – The justifiable depiction of drugs or their use may be allowed. In no case, however, should the use of drugs be promoted, condoned, justified and/or encouraged.

=Not for Public Exhibition ("X")

= X "X-rated" films have been deemed by the board to be unsuitable for public exhibition. A film shall be disapproved for public viewing if, in the judgment of the Board: # The average person, applying contemporary community standards and values, would find that the dominant theme of the work, taken as a whole appeals solely to the prurient interest and satisfies only the craving for gratuitous sex and/or violence. # The film depicts in a patently lewd, offensive, or demeaning manner, excretory functions and sexual conduct such as

sexual intercourse Sexual intercourse (or coitus or copulation) is a sexual activity typically involving the insertion and thrusting of the penis into the vagina for sexual pleasure or reproduction.Sexual intercourse most commonly means penile–vaginal penetrat ...

masturbation Masturbation is the sexual stimulation of one's own genitals for sexual arousal or other sexual pleasure, usually to the point of orgasm. The stimulation may involve hands, fingers, everyday objects, sex toys such as vibrators, or combinatio ...

and exhibition of the

genitals A sex organ (or reproductive organ) is any part of an animal or plant that is involved in sexual reproduction. The reproductive organs together constitute the reproductive system. In animals, the testis in the male, and the ovary in the female, a ...

. # The film clearly constitutes an attack against any race, creed, or religion. # The film condones or encourages

abuse Abuse is the improper usage or treatment of a thing, often to unfairly or improperly gain benefit. Abuse can come in many forms, such as: physical or verbal maltreatment, injury, assault, violation, rape, unjust practices, crimes, or other t ...

and

exploitation Exploitation may refer to: *Exploitation of natural resources *Exploitation of labour ** Forced labour *Exploitation colonialism *Slavery ** Sexual slavery and other forms *Oppression *Psychological manipulation In arts and entertainment *Exploi ...

against women and/or children. # The film promotes or endorses the use of illegal drugs and substances. # The film tends to undermine the faith and confidence of the people in their government and/or duly-constituted authorities. # The film glorifies criminals or condones crimes. # The film may constitute contempt of court or of a quasi-judicial tribunal, or may pertain to matters which are subjudicial in nature.

Use of movie ratings in television

Celestial Movies Pinoy uses an advisory for these movie ratings before showing of the film in lieu of television ratings.

Television

The MTRCB has implemented a television content rating system since November 1, 1995. Historically, there were only two television ratings used (see the table below). These ratings consisted of a plain text digital on-screen graphic (or pictogram) appearing on the corner of the screen during a program's run time.

Summary

On October 6, 2011, in order to encourage parents to supervise and be responsible with their children in watching television, the rating system was reformatted, with one additional rating added. The ratings notice are always played before the start or midway of the show. The rating voice-overs are usually in Filipino, but predominantly English-language stations have the ratings notice spoken in English (within abroad,

GMA Pinoy TV GMA Pinoy TV is a Philippine pay television channel that was launched in March 14, 2005, by GMA Network. Operated by its subsidiaries, GMA International and GMA Worldwide Inc, it is targeted towards the Philippine diaspora. Programming The ...

GMA Life TV GMA Life TV is a 24-hour Philippine pay television channel launched in February 2008 by GMA Network. Programming The programming of GMA Pinoy TV consists mostly of shows from the Philippines from GMA Network and GTV as well as previously ai ...

GMA News TV International GMA News TV (GNTV; visually rendered in its logo in all capital letters as GMA NEWS TV) is a 24-hour Philippine-based international pay television channel owned by Citynet Network Marketing and Productions Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of G ...

Kapatid Channel Kapatid Channel (stylized as Kapatid) is an international Philippine subscription television channel owned by Pilipinas Global Network, Ltd. The channel offers programming highlights from the Philippine television channels TV5, One Sports, ...

, AksyonTV International,

The Filipino Channel The Filipino Channel, commonly known as TFC, is a 24-hour global subscription television network based in Daly City, California with studios in Redwood City, California and offices in Africa, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Cayman Islands, UAE, Ethi ...

, Cinema One and ANC; only spoken in English). Ratings notices were previously broadcast in a 4:3 aspect ratio, but has since been broadcast in a 16:9

widescreen Widescreen images are displayed within a set of aspect ratios (relationship of image width to height) used in film, television and computer screens. In film, a widescreen film is any film image with a width-to-height aspect ratio greater than t ...

format. The green 'G', blue 'PG' and red 'SPG' graphic/DOG below are usually seen on the lower right or upper left corner of the screen during the entire show. All programs shown by the television channels are reviewed and classified by the said board. The board may suspend, reject or cancel programs, but cannot revoke broadcast licenses.

=General Patronage ("G")

G Suitable for all ages. Material for television, which in the judgment of the Board does not contain anything unsuitable for children. It appears in most home shopping blocks, children's programming, documentaries, concert specials, talent reality shows and educational programming, as well as some religious programming. A pictogram advisory accompanied by full-screen written verbal advisory to the effect that the program is classified as "General Patronage" shall be broadcast for at least 10 seconds immediately before the opening credits of the particular television material classified as such.

=Parental Guidance / ''Patnubay at Gabay'' ("PG")

PG Parental guidance suggested. Material for television, which, in the judgment of the Board, may contain some adult material that may be permissible for children to watch but only under the guidance and supervision of a parent or adult. The television program classified as "PG" must, in the judgment of the Board, meet the following criteria: # ''Theme'' – More serious issues may be tackled but the treatment must be suitable to children below 13 years old. # ''Language'' – Very mild swear words only shall be allowed. Use of a strong expletive in a sexual context or sexually-based expletives shall not be allowed. Neither shall prolonged and/or successive use of expletives be allowed. # ''Nudity'' – Occasional natural, non-sexual nudity, is permissible. # ''Sex'' – Graphic depiction of sexual activity shall not be permitted. Sexual activity may be implied but with no details shown. # ''Violence'' – There should be no glamorization of weapons and crimes. No detail of fighting or other dangerous techniques. No detail or prolonged showing of violence or suffering. # ''Horror'' – Scary sequences must be mild and brief. # ''Drugs'' – There may only be implied depiction of prohibited drugs and/or substances or their use provided it does not condone, encourage or glamorize drug and/or substance use and it should be necessary to the theme and characterization. A pictogram advisory accompanied by full-screen written and verbal advisory to the effect that the program is classified as "Parental Guidance" shall be broadcast for at least 10 seconds immediately before the opening credits of the particular television material classified as such.

GMA Network GMA Network (Global Media Arts or simply GMA) is a Philippine free-to-air television and radio network. It is the flagship property of publicly traded GMA Network, Inc. Its first broadcast on television was on October 29, 1961. GMA Network (f ...

's ''

Wowowin ''Wowowin'' is a Philippine television variety show broadcast by All TV. Hosted by Willie Revillame, it premiered on May 10, 2015 on GMA Network. The show aired its final broadcast on GMA Network on February 11, 2022. The show premiered on All ...

'' airs two PG DOGs, the second one being the cue for regional stations to join in the Manila feed.

=Strong Parental Guidance / ''Striktong Patnubay at Gabay'' ("SPG")

SPG Stronger and more vigilant parental guidance is suggested. Programs classified as "SPG" may contain more serious topics and themes, which may not be advisable for children to watch except under the very vigilant guidance and presence of a parent or an adult. Television programs classified as "SPG" must still fall within the parameters of the existing Parental Guidance classification rating. However, to merit the issuance of an "SPG" rating, the gravity of the material must, in the judgment of the Board, be leaning towards the maximum allowable for Parental Guidance rating. In determining the proper classification rating, the Board shall consider the purpose, genre, and time slot of the program as well as the treatment and depiction of attendant factors such as, but not limited to: Theme (''Tema''), Language (''Lenggwahe''), Violence (''Karahasan''), Sex (''Sekswal''), Horror (''Horror'') and Drugs (''Droga''). In the exercise of its judgment, the Board shall take due consideration of balancing the interest of the State to protect the welfare of the youth with the interest of the broadcast networks to freedom of expression. A pictogram advisory accompanied by a full-screen written advisory with voice over to the effect that the program is classified as "Strong Parental Guidance" shall be broadcast for at least 20 seconds, immediately before the opening credits and midway in the full airing of the particular television material classified as such. The full-screen advisory shall specifically declare the content descriptors pertinent to the program being shown, such as but not limited to: Theme (''Tema''), Language (''Lenggwahe''), Violence (''Karahasan''), Sex (''Sekswal''), Horror and Drugs (''Droga''). The SPG rating was implemented on February 9, 2012.

=Disapproved for Airing on Television ("X")

= Any television program that does not conform to the "G", "PG", and "SPG" classification shall be unfit for television broadcast if, in the judgment of the Board applying contemporary Filipino cultural values as standard, it is objectionable for being immoral, indecent, contrary to law and/or good customs, injurious to the prestige of the Republic of the Philippines or its people, or with a dangerous tendency to encourage the commission of violence, or of a wrong, or crime, such as but not limited to: # The average person, applying contemporary community standards and values, would find that the dominant theme of the work, taken as a whole appeals solely to the prurient interest and satisfies only the craving for gratuitous sex and/or violence. # The work depicts in a patently lewd, offensive, or demeaning manner, excretory functions, and sexual conduct such as sexual intercourse, masturbation and exhibition of the genitals. # The work clearly constitutes an attack against any race, creed or religion. # The work condones or encourages abuse and exploitation against women and/or children. # The work promotes or endorses the use of illegal drugs and substances. # The work tends to undermine the faith and confidence of the people in their government and/or duly constituted authorities. # The work glorifies criminals or condones crimes. # The work is libelous or defamatory to the good name and reputation of any person, whether living or dead. # The work may constitute contempt of court of a quasi-judicial tribunal, or may pertain to matters, which are subjudicial in nature.

Exemptions of classification ratings in television

National and local newscasts are exempted from the ratings system (except in the case of selected news stories, such as in ABS-CBN's

TV Patrol ''TV Patrol'' is a Philippine television newscast produced by ABS-CBN News. It premiered on March 2, 1987, at the former ABS-CBN television network, replacing ''Balita Ngayon''. ''TV Patrol'' is the flagship national newscast of the network a ...

, which uses an SPG graphic for stories with sensitive or graphic content). Some regional news programs and some

CNN Philippines CNN Philippines (abbreviated as CNN PH) is a commercial broadcast, cable and satellite television network in the Philippines. It is owned and operated by Nine Media Corporation, together with Radio Philippines Network (RPN) as the main content ...

newscasts air a PG advisory before the show, which may violate the rules. These circumstances, however, do not affect the program itself. TV5's '' Aksyon sa Tanghali'', on the other hand, was given a Strong Parental Guidance rating in April 2018 due to its public service segments profane nature. The rating also includes the news segments of the said edition. IBC 13 does not use either the green 'G', blue 'PG', or red 'SPG' graphics on selected programs and documentaries produced by the government-controlled

Presidential Communications Group (Philippines) The Presidential Communications Group, or simply the Communications Group, is the collective name for the offices within the Office of the President of the Philippines and refers to the position of the Office of the Press Secretary, formerly kn ...

(PCOO), considering that they are information-based materials.

DepEd TV Department of Education TV (known as DepEd TV) was a Philippine educational UHF television channel of the Department of Education (DepEd) with the assistance of the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). It was launched on Augu ...

and DepEd ALS also do not use the three aforementioned rating graphics considering that they are educational content.

Home videos

The

Optical Media Board The Optical Media Board (OMB, formerly known as the Videogram Regulatory Board (VRB), is a Philippine government agency that is part of the Office of the President of the Philippines, responsible for regulating the production, use and distribution ...

formerly governed

for home video releases; this has since been managed by the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board. Before 2015, unlike the theatrical ratings, only three are applied to video releases and printed on labels: General Audience (G) for films previously rated G in cinemas, Parental Guidance (PG) for most PG and some R-13 or R-16 titles (with cuts for the R-ratings), and Restricted For Adults (R) for some R-13, many R-16, and most R-18 titles ithout cuts for R-16 and R-18, including films released unrated or with adults-only rating equivalents (e.g. R, 18+, M18, NC-17, Category III, R21) outside the Philippines Since 2015, the theatrical ratings were applied as home video ratings, replacing the previous system. In addition to issuing parental ratings for home video content, routine inspections are also conducted at public transport terminals where passenger buses equipped with onboard entertainment systems can be found, to ensure that the films in question are approved by both agencies for public exhibition and are free of inappropriate content.

Radio

The

Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas The Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP; en, Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines) is a broadcast media organization in the Philippines which provides its members broadcasting standards. The KBP was organized on April 27, 19 ...

(KBP; English: ''Association of Broadcasters of the Philippines''), an association unrelated to the government, governs censorship on

radio Radio is the technology of signaling and communicating using radio waves. Radio waves are electromagnetic waves of frequency between 30 hertz (Hz) and 300 gigahertz (GHz). They are generated by an electronic device called a transmit ...

, although it can only reprimand its own members using the required disciplinary action. Some radio stations have their own PG and SPG advisory before the start of the program, should it contain mature themes.

Internet

Although the board itself does not govern nor does it censor TV shows and movies online, video streaming services such as VIU,

Discovery+ Discovery may refer to: * Discovery (observation), observing or finding something unknown * Discovery (fiction), a character's learning something unknown * Discovery (law), a process in courts of law relating to evidence Discovery, The Discover ...

iflix WeTV iflix, or simply iflix, is a Malaysian free and subscription video on demand (VOD) service focused on emerging markets. Its global headquarters are in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The site serves as a digital hosting and distribution platform fo ...

Netflix Netflix, Inc. is an American subscription video on-demand over-the-top streaming service and production company based in Los Gatos, California. Founded in 1997 by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph in Scotts Valley, California, it offers a fil ...

, and

HBO Go HBO Go is a partly-inactive authenticated video on demand of the pay television service HBO. The service allowed subscribers to HBO via television providers to access its programming on-demand via the HBO website, mobile apps, and digital media p ...

make use of their own content rating systems to ensure whether content is or isn't family-friendly. On September 3, 2020, it was reported that MTRCB wanted to seek the "regulation" of video content that is provided by streaming platforms such as Netflix. According to Atty. Jonathan Presquito, the MTRCB legal affairs division chief, there is a necessity proceed with the regulation, especially because several video content are unrated. However, the move was strongly criticized by several groups and people, noting that the MTRCB has become a tool of censorship. Senator Franklin Drilon said that the move was "very impractical".

Controversies

Despite touting itself as promoting Filipino values and "intelligent viewing", the board has drawn criticism from filmmakers and special interest groups for its vested interest in the film and television industries, ''

, stifling of creative freedoms on the grounds of family-friendliness, and allegations of inaccuracy in film and television ratings. Critics contend that the board has not rated certain media, particularly international

superhero A superhero or superheroine is a stock character that typically possesses ''superpowers'', abilities beyond those of ordinary people, and fits the role of the hero, typically using his or her powers to help the world become a better place, ...

, action and fantasy films, such as Michael Bay's ''

Transformers ''Transformers'' is a media franchise produced by American toy company Hasbro and Japanese toy company Takara Tomy. It primarily follows the Autobots and the Decepticons, two alien robot factions at war that can transform into other forms, suc ...

'' and the ''

Harry Potter ''Harry Potter'' is a series of seven fantasy literature, fantasy novels written by British author J. K. Rowling. The novels chronicle the lives of a young Magician (fantasy), wizard, Harry Potter (character), Harry Potter, and his friends ...

'' series (based on the novels by

J.K. Rowling Joanne Rowling ( "rolling"; born 31 July 1965), also known by her pen name J. K. Rowling, is a British author and philanthropist. She wrote ''Harry Potter'', a seven-volume children's fantasy series published from 1997 to 2007. The ser ...

), along with locally produced

romantic comedies Romantic comedy (also known as romcom or rom-com) is a subgenre of comedy and slice of life fiction, focusing on lighthearted, humorous plot lines centered on romantic ideas, such as how true love is able to surmount most obstacles. In a typica ...

, harshly for violent or sexual themes, noting the arbitrary and biased classification based on board members' opinions on certain films for mature audiences yet overlooking certain scenes or themes that would be given a higher rating elsewhere.

Sanctions on content

Aside from administering parental ratings for movies and shows, the MTRCB also reserves the right to sanction a certain program (or suspend a cable channel) depending on the gravity of the violation as a means of disciplinary action. The following cases involve domestic and international content suspensions, probations, and even self-regulations due to the following issues with the content or cast.

Minor and government television networks in the Philippines

*On August 16, 2004, MTRCB preemptively suspended the showing of the ''

Ang Dating Daan ''Ang Dating Daan'' (English: The Old Path, Portuguese: ''O Caminho Antigo'', Spanish: ''El Camino Antiguo'') is a religious radio and television program produced by the Members Church of God International. It is primarily hosted by Brother E ...

'' on

UNTV UNTV, formally known as UNTV News and Rescue and UNTV Public Service, is the flagship Philippine television network of the Progressive Broadcasting Corporation (known on air as UNTV-PBC), together with Breakthrough and Milestones Productions ...

for 20 days due to slander and use of offensive and obscene language by its televangelist-host

Eli Soriano Eliseo "Eli" Fernando Soriano (; April 4, 1947 – February 10, 2021) was a Filipino preacher and televangelist. He was the "Overall Servant" ( Tagalog: ''Lingkod Pangkalahatan,'' formerly called "Presiding Minister") of the Members Church of ...

, as a mean of disciplinary action. *During the 2007 elections, RJTV aired political advertisements for the electoral alliance

Genuine Opposition Genuine Opposition (GO) was an electoral alliance in the Philippines that contested the 2007 Philippine general election. The alliance's members were in opposition to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. It was originally called the United Opposi ...

containing offensive and obscene language; they were later pulled off. *On July 27, 2019,

People's Television Network People's Television Network ( fil, Telebisyon ng Bayan; abbreviated PTV) is the flagship State broadcasting, state broadcaster owned by the Government of the Philippines. Founded in 1974, PTV is the main brand of People's Television Network, In ...

's ''

PCSO Lottery Draw The ''PCSO Lottery Draw'' is a Philippine television game show produced by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). It airs daily (except Christmas, New Year and Maundy Thursday to Easter Sunday) on the People's Television Network ( ...

'' the program was put into hiatus following orders from President

Rodrigo Duterte Rodrigo Roa Duterte (, ; born March 28, 1945), also known as Digong, Rody, and by the initials DU30 and PRRD, is a Filipino lawyer and politician who served as the 16th president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022. He is the chairperson ...

to suspend all gambling-related operations of PCSO due to corruption allegations. However, the program partially resumed on July 31 as the President lifted the suspension of the lottery game. Though the ''Small Town Lottery'' among other games, which has a segment in the program stayed suspended until August 22, 2019.

Major television networks

*On August 6, 1999, ''

Magandang Tanghali Bayan ''MTB'', fully spelled as ''Magandang Tanghali Bayan'' () and ''Masayang Tanghali Bayan'' (), and later known as ''MTB Ang Saya Saya'' ( or ), is a Philippine noontime variety show broadcast by ABS-CBN. The show aired from Mondays to Saturdays a ...

'' was suspended for 20 days due to inappropriate jokes made by hosts Willie Revillame, Randy Santiago and John Estrada on its segment ''Calendar Girls''. *The controversial suspension of the documentary program ''

I-Witness ''i-Witness'', formerly ''i-Witness: The GMA Documentaries'' is a Philippine television documentary show broadcast by GMA Network and GMA News TV. Originally hosted by Vicky Morales, Luchi Cruz-Valdes, Mike Enriquez, Cheche Lazaro and Jessica ...

'' on

after it showed "''Lukayo''", a unique ritual dance from Laguna. *Eda Nolan's wardrobe malfunction in ''

Wowowee ''Wowowee'' () is a Philippine noontime variety show that was broadcast by ABS-CBN from 2005 to 2010. The show premiered on February 5, 2005, and aired live on weekdays and Saturdays. The show was also broadcast worldwide through ABS-CBN's The ...

'', which happened on May 12, 2007, suspended the show for 3 days. *In January 2010, '' It's Showtime'' was suspended for 20 days due to guest judge

Rosanna Roces Jennifer Adriano Arias (born May 25, 1972), better known by her stage names Rosanna Roces and Osang, is a Filipina actress. Career Roces was a contract star of Seiko Films from 1994 to 1996, introduced initially as "Ana Maceda". After her yea ...

making denigrating remarks towards teachers. The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board also directed the filing of criminal charges against Florida Tan,

ABS-CBN ABS-CBN (an initialism of its two predecessors' names, Alto Broadcasting System and Chronicle Broadcasting Network) is a Television in the Philippines, Philippine Commercial broadcasting, commercial broadcast broadcast network, network tha ...

vice-president for programming, and other officers ''responsible for the violation''. Bong Osorio, head of ABS-CBN's Corporate Communications said that the suspension was not yet final and that they were seeking appeal before the Office of the President. However, the suspension of the variety show lasted for only six days after the

Court of Appeals A court of appeals, also called a court of appeal, appellate court, appeal court, court of second instance or second instance court, is any court of law that is empowered to hear an appeal of a trial court or other lower tribunal. In much of ...

issued a 60-day temporary restraining order against the MTRCB in January 2010, the issuance of the order, and therefore the return of the said show was announced on ''Magpasikat''. *''

Willing Willie ''Wil Time Bigtime'' (formerly known as ''Willing Willie'') is a Philippine primetime variety-game show broadcast by TV5. The show premiered on October 23, 2010, with its main host Willie Revillame. The show commemorated its first anniversary ...

'' received a month-long suspension after a child performed a suggestive dance while crying in front of the audience and on its live broadcast. It was placed also under probation, meaning that the show needs daily permits from the MTRCB before airing after the suspension was lifted.http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=682206&publicationSubCategoryId=200 *The 20-day suspension of '' T3: Kapatid, Sagot Kita!'' responses at actors

Raymart Santiago Raymond Martin Legaspi Santiago (born July 20, 1973) is a Filipino, TV host, actor, and comedian. Career After making his movie debut in Viva Films' youth comedy ''Estudyante Blues'' (''Student Woes''), Santiago became a Viva contract artist an ...

and Claudine Barretto on its live broadcast. Before that, a brawl between their brother, Ramon Tulfo and on the latter couple happened in the

Ninoy Aquino International Airport Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA , ; fil, Paliparang Pandaigdig ng Ninoy Aquino or ''Pandaigdigang Paliparan ng Ninoy Aquino''; ), originally known and still commonly referred to as Manila International Airport (MIA), is the main ...

Terminal 3. TV5 has questioned the board's decision to suspend the program, stating that the action was heavy-handed and called it an act of censorship, though it was then lifted after a couple of days. *On May 30, 2012, the MTRCB imposed a 3-month suspension to ''T3: Kapatid Sagot Kita'' from May 31 to August 31, 2012, without cancellation, regarding to the same issue as above. After the suspension the program will be still under probation, meaning it needs daily permits from the MTRCB before airing until the board is convinced. Chairwoman Grace Poe-Llamanzares stated that MTRCB has the full jurisdiction in the program. However, the suspension was once again lifted on June 21, this time under a 60-day

temporary restraining order An injunction is a legal and equitable remedy in the form of a special court order that compels a party to do or refrain from specific acts. ("The court of appeals ... has exclusive jurisdiction to enjoin, set aside, suspend (in whole or in par ...

from the

. *The episode '' Manika'' on ''

Maalaala Mo Kaya ''Maalaala Mo Kaya'' (; formerly written as ''Maala-ala Mo Kaya...''; abbreviated as ''MMK''), also known as ''Memories'', is a Philippines, Philippine television drama anthology show broadcast by Kapamilya Channel under ABS-CBN Entertainment. ...

'' was slated to be aired on June 2, 2012, but was pulled off after MTRCB granted it rated X regarding the sensitive rape theme. The episode finally aired on June 30, 2012, after it was given a SPG rating for its final televised airing. *On February 8, 2013, the MTRCB imposed a six-month probation period on variety show '' Party Pilipinas'' for a lewd dance number involving

Lovi Poe Lourdes Virginia Moran Poe (born February 11, 1989), popularly known as Lovi Poe, is a Filipino actress, model, and recording artist. She is the daughter of action star Fernando Poe Jr. Poe is known for starring in two popular GMA drama seri ...

and

Rocco Nacino Enrico Raphael Quiogue Nacino (born March 21, 1987 in Baguio, Benguet, Philippines), known professionally as Rocco Nacino, is a Filipino actor. He won the title of Second Prince in the fifth season of '' StarStruck''. He is currently an exclusi ...

. They also ordered

to apologize publicly.Bubble Gang ''Bubble Gang'' is a Philippine television sketch comedy show broadcast by GMA Network. Directed by Frasco Mortiz, it stars Michael V. It premiered on October 20, 1995 on the network's Friday night line up replacing '' Vilma''. The show is t ...

History

The Board

List of board chairpersons

Classification ratings

Movies

Summary

=General Audience ("G")

=Parental Guidance ("PG")

=Restricted 13 ("R-13")

=Restricted–16 ("R-16")

=Restricted-18 ("R-18")

=Not for Public Exhibition ("X")

Use of movie ratings in television

Television

Summary

=General Patronage ("G")

=Parental Guidance / ''Patnubay at Gabay'' ("PG")

=Strong Parental Guidance / ''Striktong Patnubay at Gabay'' ("SPG")

=Disapproved for Airing on Television ("X")

Exemptions of classification ratings in television

Home videos

Radio

Internet

Controversies

Sanctions on content

Minor and government television networks in the Philippines

Major television networks

Domestic films

See also

References

External links