The MTRCB has pushed back against proposals to ban movies and television programs with violent themes, saying stronger parental guidance and responsible content regulation are more effective than outright prohibition.

In a statement released Aug. 5, the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board said it shares public concern over the possible effects of violent content on children and young viewers. However, the agency stressed that its mandate under Presidential Decree No. 1986 is to assign age-appropriate classifications while supporting the growth of the local film and television industry, not to impose blanket bans.

The MTRCB said prohibiting films and TV programs solely because they depict violence could infringe on the constitutional right of Filipino creatives to freedom of expression and artistic creation.

Instead, the board urged parents, educators and other stakeholders to play a more active role in supervising children and helping them understand the context of what they watch, whether on television, in cinemas or on social media.

The agency also highlighted its Responsableng Panonood Program, which uses its PROTECT Framework to educate parents, teachers and local officials on responsible media consumption among children.

The MTRCB said protecting minors from harmful content is a shared responsibility among government, parents, schools, media practitioners, digital influencers and the entertainment industry. It added that it continues to work with film and television stakeholders to promote responsible self-regulation while ensuring Filipino cultural values are respected.

The board said it remains committed to striking a balance between safeguarding children and upholding freedom of expression in Philippine media.