ENTERTAINMENT & LIFESTYLE
Advocates Philippines
MTRCB Suspends 'It's Showtime!' For 12 Days Following Viewer Complaints
Photo credit: It's Showtime
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has announced the suspension of the popular live noontime program "It's Showtime!" for a period of twelve (12) airing days. This suspension comes in response to numerous complaints from viewers regarding the show's alleged indecent conduct during its episode on July 25, 2023, particularly during the "Isip Bata" segment.

The MTRCB's Hearing and Adjudication Committee thoroughly examined the case, requiring the program's hosts to submit their position papers as part of the procedural process. The decision to suspend the show aligns with the provisions outlined in Presidential Decree No. 1986 (MTRCB Charter).

Under the current regulations, the respondents have the option to file one Motion for Reconsideration (MR) within fifteen (15) days following receipt of the decision. If the Board's decision remains adverse after the MR, an appeal can be made to the Office of the President within fifteen (15) days from the receipt of the MR decision.
This is not the first time "It's Showtime!" has faced a preventive suspension order. In 2010, the MTRCB imposed a 20-day preventive suspension on ABS-CBN's daily variety program when it was known as "Showtime."

In 2023 alone, the MTRCB has received multiple complaints related to the show, prompting the Board to take action.

The MTRCB also issued two (2) prior warnings to the show for separate instances of inappropriate language and content, emphasizing the need for improved compliance with regulations. The warnings were as follows:

Case no. 1: Hosts Jhong Hilario and Vice Ganda uttered the inappropriate word "G Spot" during the January 24, 2023 episode, leading to an admonishment from the Board.

Case no. 2: Host Vhong Navarro's use of the word "Tinggil" during the June 3, 2023 episode resulted in a stern warning to ABS-CBN and ZOE Broadcasting Network, Inc. (ZBNI).

The show has submitted Motion for Reconsiderations (MRs) for these cases, which are currently pending with the MTRCB's Adjudication Committee.

Additionally, "It's Showtime!" received prior warnings for issues such as the use of the term "Pek Pek Shorts" in the January 9, 2023 episode and Kim Duenas' indecent attire and performance in the "Girl on Fire" segment on February 14, 2023. In both cases, the respondents were cautioned that further violations would be dealt with more severely.

The MTRCB clarified that they only adjudicate cases that have a basis in law and their mandate, as outlined in P.D. No. 1986. While the board has dismissed several complaints in the spirit of fairness and equity, they remain committed to upholding the standards of decency in television content.
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