Title
Measures on Media to Preserve Public Order
Law
Letter Of Instructions No. 439
Decision Date
Jul 23, 1976
Letter of Instructions No. 439 directs the Secretary of National Defense to implement measures preventing privately-owned media from disseminating propaganda or harmful content, including the prohibition of objectionable films or shows, removal of objectionable parts from films, and the prohibition of offensive printed materials, in order to protect the government and national interests.
A

Definition and Scope of "Public Order"

  • Public order includes:
    1. Preventing public exhibition of films or live shows in theaters, stages, or on television.
    2. Removal of objectionable parts from any film.
    3. Prohibiting or halting the publication and distribution of printed materials deemed offensive.
  • Media covered include newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and other communication platforms.
  • The Executive Committee holds overriding authority on decisions regarding offensive content, superseding other government agencies.

Implementation and Conduct Guidelines

  • Emphasizes the use of reasonable means by enforcement personnel.
  • Stipulates avoidance of injury to persons and damage to property during enforcement activities.

Regulatory Authority

  • The Secretary of National Defense, as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the National Security Council, is empowered to issue rules and regulations to effectively implement this Letter of Instructions.

Legal and Administrative Impact

  • Provides a legal basis for censoring and controlling media content in the interest of preserving national security and public order.
  • Grants expansive authority to the Executive Committee to determine what constitutes offensive content related to public morals and decency under the context of the New Society.
  • Establishes a framework for ongoing surveillance and regulation of media to prevent dissemination of material considered inimical to the government or national welfare.

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