The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has warned filmmakers and cinemas against using falsified permits after discovering a fake Permit to Exhibit (PTE) linked to “Tatsulok Trilogy,” an independent film series written and directed by FAMAS Best Director awardee Jhonny Bobier.

The film series is produced by Tanajuan Pelikula Production, which the MTRCB said was not registered with the agency.

According to the MTRCB, “Tatsulok Trilogy” had not undergone the agency’s review and classification process and did not have a valid PTE.

The fake permit was discovered during the film’s Aug. 21 premiere after MTRCB Board Member Ma. Cecilia Villarosa noticed that her name appeared on the document as one of its purported reviewers.

Villarosa, however, did not review the film.

Further examination raised more red flags. The permit contained a misspelled name of another MTRCB Board member, did not bear the agency’s official dry seal and was supposedly issued on a date when government work had been suspended because of flooding.

“The use of a falsified Permit to Exhibit is a serious violation. No producer or filmmaker may bypass the MTRCB’s review and classification process through fabricated or unauthorized documents,” MTRCB Chair and CEO Lala Sotto said.

The agency reminded filmmakers, producers and other entities involved in regulated movie and television activities that they are required to register with the MTRCB and comply with its review and classification requirements.

The MTRCB said it is pursuing the appropriate proceedings against Tanajuan Pelikula Production, subject to due process.

It also urged cinemas to independently verify the authenticity of every PTE before allowing a film to be screened.

As of publication, the producers of “Tatsulok Trilogy” have yet to issue a statement regarding the MTRCB’s findings and the alleged use of a falsified permit.