MTRCB bans the airing of ‘Private Convos with Doc Rica’

THE Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) prohibited the airing of the Television (TV) program "Private Convos with Doc Rica," which airs over the One News Cable Channel, for airing a program that purely appeals to “prurient interest” and for failure to adhere to the MTRCB Rating guidelines.

 

“In the exercise of its regulatory powers, the MTRCB hereby prohibits the television program "Private Convos with Doc Rica" from exportation, copying, distribution, sale, lease, exhibition, and/or television broadcast in all media platforms within the jurisdiction of the MTRCB, commencing from the finality of this decision,” according to the January 24 ruling of the Board.

The MTRCB's Monitoring and Inspection Unit (MIU) submitted an Incident Report to the Office of the Chairperson on 24 August 2023, concerning the program "PRIVATE CONVOS WITH DOC RICA," aired over One News Cable TV by CIGNAL TV. The report highlighted episodes that featured discussions on sexual experiences and fantasies, including the use of inappropriate language.

 flagged the September 6 episode where host Doc Rica interviewed her guest about sexual awakening, during which explicit terms such as "self-masturbation, anal sex, and oral sex" were used in the conversation.

In addition to the MIU’s observations, the Board received numerous complaints against the program, primarily from concerned parents.

In adherence to due process, a Notice to Appear was issued on 28 September 2023, directing the Respondents to testify before the Agency’s Hearing and Adjudication Committee.

The Respondents appeared through their representatives and were asked to submit their respective position papers.

 

The Board meticulously reviewed the content in question and evaluated it against the relevant provisions of the law, specifically Section 3 (c) of Presidential Decree No. 1986  (PD 1986) and Section 2, Chapter IV, in relation to Section 8, Chapter V of the law's Implementing Rules and Regulations.

After a thorough examination of the case, including a comprehensive analysis of the position papers submitted by the Respondents, the Board determined that the respondent “Private Convos with Doc Rica” television program format involved detailed discussions of guests’ sexual awakenings, leading to explicit narrations of intimate experiences, and employed language deemed unsuitable for broadcasting.

MTRCB Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Lala Sotto

MTRCB Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, Lala Sotto, stated, "We unequivocally denounce any blatant disregard for the law. With the freedom to broadcast content comes a responsibility. We implore broadcasters and content providers to be circumspect and responsible in their creative processes, acknowledging the profound influence that on-screen content holds.”

The MTRCB ruled that the episode’s usage of those explicit terms, coupled with the totality of actions and expressions of the host and her guest/s, within the context of the program, “fall within materials which appeal to the prurient interest of the average person.”

 

Further, the Board disagreed with the assertion of the respondents that the program, in totality, is imbued with “educational and social value.”

 

The Board also raised concerns over the appropriateness of the medium and time slot chosen for dissemination, considering the content of the episodes, particularly the explicit discussions on sexual experiences and the use of inappropriate language.

 

The ruling also assailed the complete defiance and non-adherence of the Respondents to the MTRCB Rating in violation of Section 2, Chapter IV in relation to Section 8, Chapter V of PD 1986.

 

“The Respondents are remiss for broadcasting the mentioned television program during Child-Viewing Hours, despite asserting that the Subject Episodes were merely used as fillers in the afternoon time slot. Additionally, the Respondents failed to implement the necessary MTRCB rating for the Television Program despite being aware that the subject matter is unsuitable for very young televiewers,” the ruling states.

The ban on the TV program is effective upon the finality of the decision, covering exportation, copying, distribution, sale, lease, exhibition, and/or television broadcast in all media platforms within the jurisdiction of the MTRCB.

MTRCB Junks SMNI Motions for Reconsideration

THE Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) reaffirmed its decision to suspend the television programs "Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa" and "Laban Kasama ang Bayan" and dismissed the Motions for Reconsideration (MR) filed by SMNI.

The MTRCB's initial decision to suspend the two programs stemmed from multiple complaints regarding the alleged use of death threats and profane language by a host on "Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa" during its October 10, 2023 episode.

Although initial complaints were dismissed, the MTRCB issued a stern warning to the network that any future similar infractions would be dealt with more severely– which shows the Board's commitment to fairness and thoroughness.

More than a month after the MTRCB's initial dismissal of the case, subsequent complaints were filed against the shows’ episodes.

On December 13, 2023, following a comprehensive review of the cases and a careful examination of the position papers submitted by the respondents, the MTRCB unanimously decided to impose a preventive suspension of fourteen (14) days on both programs.

This decision was in alignment with the prior warning issued by the MTRCB and served as a proactive measure aimed at addressing concerns and fostering adherence to prescribed standards upheld by the Board.

Upon careful review and consideration of the complaints received by the Board, and following hearings conducted, the programs were deemed in violation of established guidelines and standards set by Presidential Decree No. 1986 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations governing broadcasting content.

“MTRCB’s mandate is to protect viewers from inappropriate content, more so on Television where viewers of all ages have unadulterated access. Grounded in the principles of due process and fairness, our resolve to enforce accountability in media content regulation is resolute,” said MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto.

Further, the Board, in exercising its adjudicative authority, found the respondents’ assertions unconvincing and lacking persuasiveness. Consequently, the MTRCB extended the suspension to twenty-eight (28) days, including the initial fourteen-day preventive suspension.

On January 11, 2024, the respondents submitted MRs. After a meticulous scrutiny of the matters raised in the respective motions, however, the MTRCB concluded that they merely reiterated points already raised in the position papers submitted earlier. As such, the MTRCB has decided to deny both MRs.

'Queendom Live: The TV Special' airs on GMA Network

 

A royal and majestic musical event is happening on TV as the first-ever concert of the Divas of the Queendom — Rita Daniela, Hannah Precillas, Thea Astley, Mariane Osabel, Jessica Villarubin, and Julie Anne San Jose — airs on GMA Network as “Queendom Live: The TV Special” this Friday (January 26) at 9:35 PM.

Queendom: Live, held last December 2 at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, drew thousands of ecstatic fans and concert enthusiasts who definitely enjoyed the night getting goosebumps with the divas’ powerful and phenomenal performances.

“The first-ever Queendom concert was definitely a success because of the overwhelming support of the fans who really made sure that they were present to watch the divas perform live on stage. And now, we hear their clamor, GMA proudly brings ‘Queendom Live: The TV Special’ to national TV this January 26. Through the collaboration of GMA Synergy and GMA Entertainment Group, Filipinos in different parts of the Philippines and abroad will be able to witness the concert that showcased the powerful performances of our homegrown artists,” says Senior Vice President and Head of GMA Integrated News, Regional TV, and Synergy Oliver Victor B. Amoroso.

“Rita, Hannah, Thea, Mariane, Jessica, and Julie have really proven through their concert last December 2 that they are world-class performers who have exceptional talents and skills that should be witnessed by everyone. Through the TV airing of Queendom: Live, we hope to show the rest of the Filipinos, especially those who missed their concert, what these homegrown Kapuso talents got!,” shares Consultant for Business Development Department III Darling de Jesus-Bodegon.

Don’t miss the show-stopping spectacles and world-class performances that concertgoers raved about in Queendom Live: The TV Special airing on GMA Network this January 26 at 9:35 PM.

For more stories about the Kapuso Network, visit www.GMANetwork.com.  

Lights, Camera, Panalo: Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival Introduces Finalist Directors

PUREGOLD CinePanalo Film Festival, the much-awaited event that is set to hail a new generation of outstanding Filipino films, officially introduced the recipients of its coveted film grants during a press conference held at the Artson Events Place, Quezon City.

Attended by representatives from Puregold, the film directors, their respective producers, and other key members of their teams, the press conference highlighted Puregold’s primary objectives: to provide a platform for both well-known and emerging filmmakers, and to showcase narratives—collectively called 'Kuwentong Panalo' —that can touch the heart and remind us of the indomitable Filipino spirit.

Raynier Brizuela, Carlo Obispo, Sigrid Bernardo, VJ Mendoza,
Mina Cruz, Kurt Soberano, and Eugene Torres

From hundreds of CinePanalo applicants, only thirty-one of the very best were selected as finalists. They were formally presented during the event, which also marked the beginning of the final stage of the Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival.

Among the full-length film finalists named during the press conference were Kurt Soberano, a newcomer with his entry, "Under the Piaya Moon" and Eugene Torres with "One Day League: Dead Mother, Dead All". These earned the "Producer's Choice" title, expanding the initial five grant slots to six.

The full-length filmmakers standing alongside Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad, festival director Chris Cahilig, representatives from festival partners Optima Digital and Mowelfund, and the Selection Committee.

Accompanying them were renowned directors Sigrid Bernardo for "Pushcart Tales", Raynier Brizuela for "Boys at the Back", Joel Ferrer for "Road to Happy" and Carlo Obispo for "A Lab Story”.

Promising new student directors who were likewise introduced are as follows:

● Jenievive B. Adame - "Smokey Journey" (STI College Cubao)

● Ma. Rafaela Mae Abucejo - "Saan Ako Pinaglihi?" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Alexa Moneii Agaloos - "Ka Benjie" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Kent Michael Cadungog - "Text FIND DAD and Send to 2366" (University of the Philippines)

● John Pistol L. Carmen - "Repeater si Peter" (Bicol University)

●Chrisha Eseo Cataag - "Hallway Scholar" (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng San Pablo)

● Patricia W. Dalluay - "Lola, Lola, Paano Ba 'Yan?" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Joanah Pearl Demonteverde - "Kang Pagpuli Ko" (University of the Philippines – Visayas)

25 student directors were selected from all over the Philippines to participate in the first-ever 'Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival'

25 student directors were selected from all over the Philippines to participate
in the first-ever 'Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival'

● Joshua Andrey A. Doce - "I Am Mutya And I Thank You!" (Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology)

● Neil M. Espino - "Sa Hindi Paghahangad" (De La Salle Lipa)

● Terrence Gale Fernandez - "Kaibigan ko si Batman" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Daniel Gil - "Distansya" (Ateneo de Davao University)

● Alexandra Lapid - "Queng Apag" (Mapúa University)

● Reutsche Colle Rigurosa Lima - "Tiil ni Lola" (University of San Carlos)

● Dizelle C. Masilungan - "Kung Nag-aatubili" (University of Santo Tomas)

● Jose Mikyl Medina - "Lutong Bahay" (De La Salle University)

● Ronjay-C Mendiola - "Last Shift" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

● Mark Terence Molave - "Paano po gumawa ng collage college?" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines)

Puregold CinePanalo’s student filmmakers along with Puregold senior marketing manager, Ivy Hayagan-Piedad; festival director Chris Cahilig; representatives from the festival’s partners Optima Digital and Mowelfund; and members of the festival’s Selection Committee.

● Jhunel Ruth A. Monterde - "Si Mary May Crush Kay Tess" (De La Salle College of Saint Benilde)

● Doxford D. Perlas - "Naduea Eoman Si Brownie (Brownie's Lost Again!)" (University of the Philippines – Visayas)

● Andrea S. Ponce - "Layag sa Pangarap" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sta. Mesa)

● Edz Haniel Teñido Purificacion - "Dzai Dzai Dzai Delilah" (Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna)

● John Wilbert Llever Sucaldito - "Tambal nga Sabaw" (Far Eastern University)

● Tyrone Lean J. Taotao - "Abandoned Lullabies" (Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Sta. Mesa)

● Marian Jayce R. Tiongzon - "May Kulay Rosas Ba Sa Bahaghari" (University of the Philippines – Visayas)

The six full-length film directors received a substantial grant of Php 2,500,000 each, while 25 short film student directors were granted Php 100,000 each. On top of the film grants, all finalists also received complimentary color grading from Optima Digital for their respective films, as well as essential groceries from Puregold to further support them during the production phase.

The finished Puregold CinePanalo full-length and short films will be viewed at a premiere to be held at the Gateway Cinemas in Cubao from March 15 to 17, 2024, followed by potential regional screenings. Short films will also be available on Puregold's official social media channels on YouTube and TikTok.

Chris Cahilig, festival director; Ivy-Hayagan Piedad, senior marketing manager for Puregold; Direk Emmanuel Dela Cruz, Sir Tito Valiente, and Direk Victor Villanueva of the Selection Committee; Bianca Francisco and Ruel Yap of Optima Digital; and Direk Ricky Orellana of Mowelfund at the presentation of Puregold CinePanalo filmmakers.

The distinguished selection committee, comprising veteran film and television director Jeffrey Jethurian; award-winning filmmaker Victor Villanueva; Puregold senior marketing manager Ivy Hayagan-Piedad; Lyle Gonzales of Republic Creative; and Puregold CinePanalo festival director Chris Cahilig, played a crucial role in shaping the festival's trajectory.

With the CinePanalo Film Festival, Puregold further strengthens its commitment to fostering local talent, bridging gaps, and bringing authentic Filipino stories to the forefront of the cinematic landscape.

The Puregold CinePanalo Film Festival promises to be a celebration of creativity, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of the Filipino people.

2023 MMFF Best Picture ‘Firefly’ lights up international cinemas this January

GLOBAL Pinoys and other movie enthusiasts abroad are in for a bright treat to start the year as the highly-acclaimed Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Best Picture winner 'Firefly' hits the cinemas in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and California, USA this January.

 

GMA Pictures and GMA Public Affairs are poised to further take on the global stage as they proudly present ‘Firefly’ to international audiences in the United Arab Emirates beginning January 18.

 

For moviegoers in Dubai, they can catch ‘Firefly’ at Reel Cinema Dubai Mall, Novo Dragon Mart, Novo Megaplex IBN, Vox Burjuman Center, Vox City Center Deira, and Star Al Ghurair Center. There will also be a showing at Star Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi, Novo Manar in Rak, Star Grand Mall in Ajman, and Star Al Ain Cineplex in Al Ain.

Viewers should also anticipate a special advance screening of ‘Firefly’ on January 17, a day before its official release in UAE cinemas. This will be held at the Star Cinemas, Al Ghurair Centre at 7:30 PM.

Aside from the Middle East, 'Firefly' continues its international tour to reach moviegoers in the US, as the film joins the Metro Manila International Film Festival in Los Angeles, California from January 30 to February 2.

 

The US screening of ‘Firefly’ will be held at TCL Chinese 6 theaters on January 30 (5:55 PM) and February 1 (3:00 PM), and at DGA Film Complex on February 2 (12:00 PM).

 

In the Philippines, 'Firefly' emerged as the powerful underdog at the 49th MMFF Gabi ng Parangal held last December 27, besting 9 other entries and taking home three highly-coveted major awards, including the Best Picture nod.

 

GMA Public Affairs Senior AVP and ‘Firefly’ creator Angeli Atienza won in the Best Screenplay category, while Sparkle child star Euwenn Mikaell took home the Best Child Actor award.

 

Led by esteemed director Zig Dulay, ‘Firefly’ intertwines hopes, dreams, and family, as it tells the story of Tonton and his journey to finding the mystical island of fireflies based on his mother's bedtime stories.

The film features a distinguished cast, top-billed by award-winning actress Alessandra de Rossi, who was also nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the 49th MMFF for her role as Elay – Tonton’s mother.

 

Joining Alessandra are Dingdong Dantes and Epy Quizon, who were both nominated for Best Supporting Actor. Completing the stellar cast are fan-favorite actors and actresses Ysabel Ortega, Miguel Tanfelix, Cherry Pie Picache, Yayo Aguila, Kokoy de Santos, and Max Collins.

 

Aside from the UAE and Los Angeles, California, ‘Firefly’ is also expected to be made available in other parts of the US and Asia very soon.

 

Don’t miss out on the inspiring and heartwarming story of Tonton and the rest of the ‘Firefly’ team.

 

For ticket inquiries and reservations for the US screening, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-manila-international-film-festival-tickets-771883764117?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwAR3GF0hTkSFQBnt-ZnWsrdfVGFdz_iHh1TQnDhNw-ej2smBuQ2WMZfPc5qU

Njel de Mesa’s HONGKONG KAILANGAN MO AKO: A film featuring the amazing attractions in Hongkong but with a twist!

 

Calling all movie buffs and comedy fans! 

Get ready for a hilarious adventure with International film director, Njel de Mesa's Hongkong Kailangan Mo Ako, a film that will leave you in stitches from start to finish. The film will be licensed and distributed under NDMstudios Japan. 

Jean Kiley & Mayton Eugenio

Starring Mayton Eugenio and Jean Kiley, the film is a buddy-girl movie entirely shot in Hongkong about two "bakasyonistas" encountering all the possible stressful misfortunes that one may encounter when going abroad for vacation.

The movie follows the misadventures of two best friends, Mallory & Blair, played by the dynamic duo: Mayton Eugenio and Jean Kiley. Together, they embark on a journey to Hongkong, hoping to escape their daily problems back home. But things don't go as planned, and they soon find themselves facing a series of hilarious misfortunes that threaten to derail their trip.

Mayton Eugenio

From getting lost in the city's winding alleys to accidentally offending locals with their limited Cantonese, the duo's trip is one hilarious mishap after another. But through it all, their friendship remains strong, and they are determined to make the most of their adventure, no matter what obstacles come their way.

Jean Kiley

International film director Njel de Mesa, known for his sharp wit and clever comedic timing, brings his signature brand of humor to this side-splitting film. With its witty one-liners, laugh-out-loud situations, and heartwarming moments, "Njel de Mesa's Hongkong Kailangan Mo Ako" is sure to become a comedy classic.

So grab your popcorn and get ready for a wild ride. Don't miss "Njel de Mesa's Hongkong Kailangan Mo Ako", coming to theaters soon!

Over Two Billion Views on TikTok: Viewers Brace for Bombshell Revelation as "Senior High" Promises 'Ender to Remember' Finale

VIEWERS are in for a highly emotional “ender to remember” finale as ABS-CBN’s hit primetime series “Senior High” unmasks all dirty secrets, including the bombshell revelation as to who really killed Luna (Andrea Brillantes), in the series’ last two weeks.

Andrea Brillantes & Kyle Echarri

“Senior High,” which has amassed over two billion views on TikTok, is approaching its heart-pounding finale that will finally reveal the most intriguing secret that has tormented the lives of Northford students - who is Luna’s killer? Obet (Kyle Echarri) will bear the heartbreaking truth to Sky (Andrea), Luna’s twin sister, during their school’s prom night. 

Juan Karlos, Andrea Brillantes & Kyle Echarri

Sky will also have to deal with more emotional conflict as Obet and Gino (Juan Karlos), who were both former lovers of Luna, make a last ditch effort to win Sky’s heart. But they are not the only ones who could possibly have another shot at love as Archie (Elijah Canlas) pursues Roxy (Xyriel Manabat), while Tim and Poch (Zaijian Jaranilla and Miggy Jimenez) reconcile despite initially putting a pause to their relationship.

Elijah Canlas & Xyriel Manabat

Hysteria will also break loose during prom night as Z’s (Daniela Stanner) nightmares of Luna trigger her mental breakdown, while scheming cohorts Harry and William (Baron Geisler and Mon Confiado) will also have to confront their respective issues when their dark secrets are exposed. 

Zaijian Jaranilla & Miggy Jimenez

The series, which recently hit an all-time high of 179,305  live concurrent views on Kapamilya Online Live on YouTube for its January 3 episode, quickly gained widespread popularity for tackling relevant issues surrounding the importance of mental health and netizens have constantly praised the young cast for displaying their impressive acting chops.

Elijah Canlas & Daniela Stanner

Don’t miss the “ender to remember” finale of “Senior High” on January 19 at 9:30 PM on Kapamilya Channel, A2Z, TV5, iWantTFC, and Kapamilya Online Live on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel and Facebook page.

Viewers who use any digital TV box at home such as the TVplus box only need to rescan their device to be able to watch “Senior High” on TV5 and A2Z. The show is also available to viewers in and out of the Philippines on iWantTFC, while viewers outside of the Philippines can watch on The Filipino Channel (TFC) on cable and IPTV.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom.

Pilipino Star Ngayon, Pang Masa’s Salve Asis Is New SPEEd President

The Society of Philippine Entertainment Editors (SPEEd) has elected Salve Asis, entertainment editor for Pilipino Star Ngayon and Pang Masa, as the group's president.

Asis now leads what initially began as a social club for entertainment editors of national broadsheets, top tabloids, and leading online portals, co-founded by the late Manila Standard entertainment editor and SPEEd’s president emeritus, Isah V. Red.

The immediate past president, Eugene Asis of People’s Journal, has passed on the post to Salve Asis, expressing full confidence in her decades-long experience in the industry.

As Asis assumes the leadership of SPEEd, her top priority is to organize the 7th edition of The Eddys or The Entertainment Editors’ Choice movie awards by July and to conduct charity works, a tradition the group has been following since its formation.

The group elected Tessa Mauricio-Arriola from The Manila Times for the Vice President Internal post, while Gerry Olea from Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP) is the Vice President External.

The Secretary position is shared by Gie Trillana (Malaya) and Maricris Nicasio (Hataw). Dondon Sermino of Abante and Dinah Sabal Ventura of Daily Tribune were reelected as Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer, respectively. Ervin Santiago (Bandera) and Nickie Wang (Manila Standard) were also reelected as PRO. Rohn Romulo (People’s Balita) takes on the role of Auditor.

Among its noteworthy members are Neil Ramos from Tempo, Robert Requintina from Manila Bulletin, Nathalie Tomada from Philippine Star, and Ian Fariñas from People’s Tonight.

Advisers Nestor Cuartero (Manila Bulletin and Tempo) and former president Eugene Asis (People’s Journal) contribute their valuable insights to the editorial leadership of the organization, ensuring a diverse and experienced team.