Question & AnswerQ&A (MTRCB)
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) is responsible for the review and classification of optical media materials for private viewing in the Philippines.
Optical media material refers to video cassette tapes, films, motion pictures, discs, or any other technical variation containing recorded visual images of cinematographic art or work, performance, or event for projection on television screens and other equipment, excluding software used for games and amusement requiring active user participation.
Private viewing means the act of viewing or exhibiting an optical media material in a private place without monetary or promotional consideration and where less than fifteen (15) persons are present during the viewing or exhibition.
The classifications are General Patronage (G), Parental Guidance (PG), Restricted (R), and Disapproved (X).
Material is rated Disapproved (X) if it is found objectionable for being immoral, indecent, libelous, contrary to law or good customs, or injurious to the prestige of the Republic of the Philippines and its people based on contemporary Filipino cultural values.
Prohibited acts include reproducing, distributing, selling, or leasing optical media materials without MTRCB review and classification; distributing disapproved materials; selling Restricted-rated materials to minors; possessing or distributing pornographic materials; false titling; tampering with MTRCB labels; refusal to submit to inspections; among others.
A 100% penalty shall be imposed on late registration and payment of the annual registration fee.
A designated Board member or a committee of at least three board members appointed by the Chairman may review and classify the materials. The Board shall aim to review and classify the material within ten (10) working days from receipt of the application and payment.
Yes. An applicant may file a Motion for Reconsideration within five working days following a Disapproved rating or a Motion for Reclassification within five working days from notice of the classification decision.
Such a material shall be rated correspondingly for private viewing without necessity of a separate review, given it is the same unedited version and an application along with payment has been filed.