Classification Categories and Age Restrictions
- GENERAL PATRONAGE (GP): Films open to all ages, subject to local minimum age restrictions for safety.
- PARENTAL GUIDANCE (PG): Films open to persons aged 7 and above; children aged 7 to 14 require accompaniment by an adult.
- PARENTAL GUIDANCE 15 (PG-15): Films restricted to viewers 15 years old and above; persons 14 years and below are not admitted regardless of adult accompaniment.
- RESTRICTED/ADULTS (R-18): Films exclusively for viewers 18 years old and above.
Definitions and Legal Clarifications
- Clears ambiguities about the age limits associated with each classification.
- Specifies the accompanying adult requirement only applies for the PG classification and not for PG-15 or R-18.
Implementation and Enforcement
- The classifications serve as guidance for exhibitors, local government units, and the public to enforce age-based restrictions.
- Local city or municipal ordinances may impose additional minimum age requirements for safety reasons in the GP category.
Penalties and Compliance
- While not explicitly mentioned, compliance with classifications is implied as mandatory for screening.
- The memorandum aims to prevent confusion and promote uniform application of classification rules.
Authority and Adoption
- Issued by Atty. Henrietta S. Mendez, Chairman of the MTRCB, indicating official regulatory endorsement.
- Adopted on June 15, 1993, reflecting the date of formal promulgation and enforcement.
This memorandum serves as a definitive legal guideline ensuring the appropriate and consistent classification of films in the Philippines, enhancing protection for minors and assisting parents and guardians in making informed viewing decisions.