MTRCB Mandates Family-Friendly Films for Holy Week Travel Surge
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has issued a strict reminder to public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and other common carriers to screen only age-appropriate films for passengers during the expected travel surge of Holy Week. In a memorandum dated March 24, the Board directed all operators to comply with existing regulations on film exhibition inside public transport vehicles.
Strict Adherence to G and PG Ratings Required
The directive explicitly states that only motion pictures and trailers classified by the Board as General Patronage ('G') or Parental Guidance ('PG') shall be exhibited inside common carriers. MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto clarified that a 'G' rating indicates content suitable for all audiences, while a 'PG' rating may contain themes or scenes requiring parental supervision, particularly for younger viewers.
This policy applies broadly to buses, sea vessels, and any other carriers that show films or video content during travel. To ensure full compliance, the agency's monitoring and inspection unit has been conducting on-ground checks, including two inspections last week to remind bus operators and passengers of the rules.
Protecting Minors and Fostering Respectful Travel
Sotto emphasized that the primary goal of this policy is to protect commuters, especially minors, from exposure to inappropriate content during long trips. "As families travel together this Holy Week, we want to ensure that what is shown inside public transport remains safe and appropriate for all passengers, especially children," Sotto said.
She added that by limiting content to 'G' and 'PG' classifications, operators actively help foster a respectful and family-friendly travel environment. This reminder is part of the agency's broader 'Responsableng Panonood' campaign, which promotes mindful and guided media consumption across the Philippines.
Penalties for Non-Compliance and Broader Observance
The Board issued a stern warning that operators who fail to comply with these regulations may face severe consequences, including suspension or cancellation of permits, fines, and other administrative penalties. Sotto also noted that the MTRCB joins the entire nation in observing Holy Week, encouraging Filipinos to pause, reflect, and draw meaningful insights from this solemn occasion.
This enforcement action underscores the agency's commitment to maintaining a safe and appropriate media environment in public spaces, particularly during periods of high travel volume like Holy Week.
