MANILA, Philippines — The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has rejected a proposal to ban films and television programs with violent themes as part of efforts to address crimes involving minors.
The proposal came from Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., who suggested banning violent movies and TV shows following several incidents of school violence.
Nartatez said authorities should examine the environments that influence children, including their families, communities, social media and entertainment.
The MTRCB said it shares concerns about the possible effects of violent content on young people but does not consider a ban an appropriate response.
“The MTRCB believes that banning movies and television programs with violent themes is not the appropriate solution,” the regulatory agency said in a statement.
The agency said such a ban could infringe on the constitutional right of Filipino creatives to freedom of expression and creation.
The MTRCB instead called for shared responsibility among government agencies, parents, educators, media practitioners, digital influencers and members of the film and television industries to protect children from harmful content.
The agency said it works with industry stakeholders to promote Filipino cultural values and responsible self-regulation in films, television programs and publicity materials.
The MTRCB also urged parents and educators to supervise children while they consume films, television programs and social media content.
“This is so that children properly understand the context of what they are watching,” the agency said, adding that parents and guardians can use the opportunity to reinforce Filipino values and culture.
The MTRCB said it supports balancing freedom of expression and creation with the rights of individuals and the need to protect children from harmful content.