Question & AnswerQ&A (VRB)
The Videogram Regulatory Board (VRB) is a government body created under Presidential Decree No. 1987 to regulate the videogram industry in the Philippines.
Videograms refer to video cassette tapes, discs, similar software, or other technical variations containing pre-recorded visual images and sounds of cinematographic art or work, performance, or events, excluding video games and computer software used for amusement.
A person must register with the VRB and obtain a commercial license before engaging in these businesses.
Videograms are classified as General patronage (G), Parental guidance (P), Restricted (R), and X (disapproved).
The VRB uses contemporary Filipino cultural values and disallows content that is immoral, indecent, libelous, contrary to law or good customs, injurious to the state's prestige, or that encourages hatred, violence, subversion, or obscenity.
Any duly registered and licensed video producer or distributor with evidence of rights to use and dispose of the videogram.
Such violations are classified as grave and may result in closure, revocation of license, confiscation of videograms, and fines ranging from ₱6,000 to ₱50,000.
Retailers must segregate videograms by classification, refuse to sell or rent Restricted (R) videograms to persons under 18, and Parental Guidance (P) videograms to persons under 13.
Examples of grave violations include producing, selling, or exhibiting videograms without registration or license, using videograms without rights, selling disapproved or hardcore pornography videograms, counterfeiting labels or documents, and deliberate fraud in registration.
The Board or its representatives have free and unhindered entry to inspect all business premises of producers, distributors, dealers, retailers, and exhibitors to ensure compliance with the law and regulations.