Philippines' MTRCB rejects ban on violent films and TV shows

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) publicly opposed a proposal to ban movies and television programs that contain violent content. The suggestion, put forward by Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. after a series of school‑related violent incidents, was presented as a way to curb youth crime.

MTRCB chair Lala Sotto‑Antonio said that banning such content would infringe on the constitutional right to freedom of expression and creation. The board urged parents, educators and other stakeholders to supervise children’s media consumption and to promote Filipino cultural values, emphasizing a balance between protecting children and preserving creative freedom.