MTRCB upholds 28-day suspension for SMNI shows despite appeal

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has upheld its decision to suspend the TV programs “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” and “Laban Kasama ang Bayan,” dismissing the Motions for Reconsideration (MR) submitted by SMNI.

The initial suspension was triggered by numerous complaints about alleged death threats and profanity by a host on “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” during the October 10, 2023, episode. Despite the initial dismissal of complaints, the MTRCB issued a strong warning to SMNI, underscoring its dedication to fairness and thoroughness in broadcast content regulation.

More than a month after the MTRCB’s initial dismissal of the case, subsequent complaints were filed against the shows’ episodes.

On December 13, 2023, following a comprehensive review of the cases and a careful examination of the position papers submitted by the respondents, the MTRCB unanimously decided to impose a preventive suspension of fourteen (14) days on both programs.

This decision was in alignment with the prior warning issued by the MTRCB and served as a proactive measure aimed at addressing concerns and fostering adherence to prescribed standards upheld by the Board.

Upon careful review and consideration of the complaints received by the Board, and following hearings conducted, the programs were deemed in violation of established guidelines and standards set by Presidential Decree No. 1986 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations governing broadcasting content.

“MTRCB’s mandate is to protect viewers from inappropriate content, more so on Television where viewers of all ages have unadulterated access. Grounded in the principles of due process and fairness, our resolve to enforce accountability in media content regulation is resolute,” said MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto.

Further, the Board, in exercising its adjudicative authority, found the respondents’ assertions unconvincing and lacking persuasiveness. Consequently, the MTRCB extended the suspension to twenty-eight (28) days, including the initial fourteen-day preventive suspension.

On January 11, 2024, the respondents submitted MRs. After a meticulous scrutiny of the matters raised in the respective motions, however, the MTRCB concluded that they merely reiterated points already raised in the position papers submitted earlier. As such, the MTRCB has decided to deny both MRs.