MTRCB orders 'It's Showtime' to submit compliance plan after 'Memerimar' hearing
By Neil Ramos
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has ordered the producers of "It's Showtime" to submit a joint position paper and a compliance plan after a hearing over the noontime show's controversial "Memerimar" segment aired on July 24.
In a statement released Wednesday, the MTRCB confirmed that it conducted a hearing with representatives and legal counsels of "It's Showtime," ABS-CBN Corporation, GMA Network Inc., Zoe Broadcasting Network Inc., and ALLTV following a Notice to Appear issued by the agency.
According to the MTRCB, all parties were given the opportunity to explain issues surrounding the July 24 episode, particularly the "Memerimar" segment, as part of the Board's investigation.
The agency said the hearing was conducted in line with its mandate under Presidential Decree No. 1986 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations to ensure television programs comply with broadcast standards.
Following the hearing, the MTRCB's Hearing and Adjudication Committee directed the respondents to file a verified joint position paper within seven calendar days from receipt of its order.
The committee also instructed the parties to submit a joint undertaking detailing specific measures to strengthen compliance with MTRCB rules, particularly for live, improvised and comedy segments.
In addition, the respondents were ordered to designate an On-Air Compliance Officer authorized to monitor live broadcasts and intervene immediately when necessary to prevent potential violations of the agency's rules and regulations.
The Hearing and Adjudication Committee is chaired by Board Member Atty. Ricardo "Jojo" M. Salomon Jr., with Board Members Atty. Pedro Cesar Gabriel "Chet" A. Solidum and Wilma V. Galvante serving as members.
The MTRCB emphasized that the case remains pending and will be resolved only after the committee evaluates the parties' submissions and the evidence on record.
"As the matter remains under consideration, the Board shall refrain from making any further statement that may prejudge its final disposition," the agency said.
The Board also reiterated its commitment to promoting responsible television viewing and protecting young Filipino audiences through the enforcement of broadcast standards.