Functions of the Local Regulatory Council
- Assist the MTRCB in implementing its laws, rules, and resolutions.
- Ensure theaters comply with registration and permit requirements.
- Monitor and enforce the exhibition of only MTRCB-registered films.
- Seize films shown illegally with law enforcement assistance and report violations immediately.
Theater Registration Requirements
- All theaters must annually register with the MTRCB similar to obtaining a local business permit.
- Registration must occur within the first three months of the year, except for newly opened theaters.
- Registered theaters receive an MTRCB Certificate of Registration.
- LRCs must monitor and prevent unregistered theaters from exhibiting films.
- Seizure of films is mandated if unauthorized exhibitions are verified.
Permit to Exhibit Motion Pictures
- No motion picture may be shown without a valid MTRCB-issued Permit to Exhibit.
- Permit must be posted visibly in front of the theater ticket office.
- Exhibiting films without a valid permit is illegal and criminal, violating Presidential Decree 1986 Section 7 and, for pornographic films, Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code.
- LRCs shall seize unauthorized films and notify MTRCB immediately.
Motion Picture Classification System and Admission Rules
- MTRCB issues Permits to Exhibit with classifications: G, PG 7, PG 13, and R 18.
- G (General Patronage): Open to all ages.
- PG 7 (Parental Guidance 7): For children 7+ accompanied by an adult; under 7 not admitted.
- PG 13 (Parental Guidance 13): For viewers 13+ without adult companion; under 13 not admitted.
- R 18 (Restricted 18+): For adults 18 years and above only.
- LRCs are tasked to enforce compliance with age restrictions and expel violators.
- Encouragement to local ordinances imposing fines on improper admission to help enforcement and generate incidental funds.
Classification Standee Posting in Theaters
- Theaters must display a 3-foot tall sign in the lobby showing the film’s MTRCB classification.
- For double features, the more restrictive classification governs admission and signage.
- Failure to display the standee must be reported if not promptly corrected.
Regulation of Publicity Materials
- Lobby still photos, posters, and billboards must be suitable for all audiences (General Patronage).
- Explicit or violent promotional materials such as frontal nudity, gore, hostage scenes, or threatening images are prohibited.
- LRCs are to confiscate objectionable publicity materials and report findings.
Mandatory Playing of the National Anthem
- Executive Order No. 99 (1993) requires the National Anthem to be played during sign-on and sign-off at all theaters.
- The anthem must follow the original Julian Felipe martial arrangement.
- The playing should include an announcement directing viewers to stand and place their right hand over their left chest.
Monitoring of Television Programs
- LRCs also oversee television programming compliance with MTRCB television classification guidelines.
- Report objectionable TV content directly to the MTRCB.
Reporting and Accountability Procedures
- LRCs must file written reports immediately on violations.
- Reports must include details such as film title, theater name, owner’s identity, and date/time of violation.
- Sample violation report forms provided by MTRCB for local use.
- Quarterly situation reports to be submitted to MTRCB.
- Seized materials must be safely stored by LRC pending further MTRCB instructions.
Limitations of LRC Powers
- LRCs are not authorized to close theaters or suspend/cancel permits.
- Such powers are exclusively vested in the MTRCB Board.
Additional Responsibilities of the LRC
- Submit an updated list of theaters including ownership, address, air-conditioning status, and registration status.
- Perform other duties assigned periodically by the MTRCB Chairman.
Administrative and Operational Provisions
- The guidelines took effect on July 3, 1995.
- Signed by Attorney Henrietta S. Mendez, Chairman of the MTRCB.