Question & AnswerQ&A (MTRCB)
The MTRCB's authority covers all motion pictures, television programs, and related publicity materials intended for public exhibition in theaters and television, whether imported or produced in the Philippines, for local viewing or export. These materials must be reviewed and classified by the MTRCB prior to their distribution, sale, lease, or exhibition.
The MTRCB classifies material based on contemporary Filipino cultural values and focuses on the treatment of theme, violence, language, nudity, drug abuse, and similar elements. The classification system assumes parental responsibility and aims to provide advance information to parents, not to evaluate the quality of the content.
The movie classifications are: GENERAL AUDIENCE (G) for all ages; PARENTAL GUIDANCE-13 (PG-13) where parents are strongly cautioned; STRICTLY FOR ADULTS (R), restricted to adults 18 and above; and NOT FOR PUBLIC VIEWING (X), which is a ban on theatrical distribution.
Content with adult material including vulgar or profane language, considerable sex and violence, sexually oriented nudity, tolerant depiction of aberrational behavior, and drug use would be classified as STRICTLY FOR ADULTS (R). No one under 18 is allowed to watch such material.
An 'X' classification means the movie is not for public viewing, effectively banned from theatrical distribution and television exhibition unless modified to meet 'G' or 'PG' TV standards. Such films may only be shown in venues outside MTRCB jurisdiction with strict non-admission of minors.
Television programs are classified as GENERAL AUDIENCE (G), suitable for all ages, or PARENTAL GUIDANCE (PG), meaning parental guidance is suggested as some content may be inappropriate for children.
No, trailers and publicity materials for movies and television must strictly be suitable for GENERAL AUDIENCE (G). Materials rated above G shall not be approved for exhibition or broadcast.
Applicants must submit a written application under oath specifying details such as the type of permit, their information, and the title of the material. They must also submit sworn statements declaring the number of prints produced or imported, certifications from studios or labs as applicable, import/export documents if relevant, and any other documents the MTRCB requires.
The MTRCB must complete review and classification within TEN (10) DAYS from receipt of the film prints or television program tapes with the complete application. For second reviews upon reconsideration, the decision must be rendered within FIVE (5) DAYS.
Violations may be penalized with suspension or cancellation of permits and licenses issued by the MTRCB, imposition of administrative penalties, and possible criminal actions. The Chairman may also order preventive seizure of offending materials and temporary closure of establishments involved.
They must ensure employees follow MTRCB rules, create in-house regulatory bodies for TV programs, report illegal insertions, prosecute employees involved in violations, apply the most restrictive classification in cases of double features, and strictly comply with audience suitability classifications, including barring unaccompanied minors where applicable.
An applicant may file an appeal within FIFTEEN (15) DAYS of notice of the decision by filing a notice of appeal with the MTRCB and paying the appeal docket fee. The appeal is then transmitted to the Office of the President, whose decision through the Appeals Committee is final.
The Board shall not disapprove content solely based on its topic, theme, or subject matter, provided it does not violate Section 201 (Offenses Against Decency and Good Customs) of the Revised Penal Code.
No, all films and television programs must undergo classification for audience suitability; no exemptions are granted.