The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) upheld the suspension of two Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI) shows due to complaints about death threats and profane language used by a host during an episode that aired on Oct. 10, 2023.
In a statement released Friday, Jan. 26, the MTRCB ruled that television programs “Gikan sa Masa, Para sa Masa” and “Laban Kasama ang Bayan” shall remain off the air in violation of broadcast content guidelines. It denied the separate motions for reconsideration (MR) filed by SMNI.
“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,” the media regulator said.
“More than a month after the MTRCB’s initial dismissal of the case, subsequent complaints were filed against the shows’ episodes,” it added.
The MTRCB is mandated to protect viewers from inappropriate content, especially on television where viewers of all ages have access.
In its new decision, the MTRCB dismissed SMNI’s motions against the suspension, saying the network “merely reiterated points already raised in the position papers submitted earlier.”
“As such, the MTRCB has decided to deny both MRs,” it said.
SMNI had been subject to separate hearings at the House of Representatives regarding potential franchise violations, including the broadcast of false and defamatory content.
The hearings also addressed an alleged threat made by former President Rodrigo Duterte on his show “Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa” against ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro.
SMNI hosts were also reported to have labeled activists, human rights workers, and political figures as rebels and terrorists.
The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) earlier ordered SMNI to cease and desist from operating its radio and television stations while pending a hearing and final consideration of its administrative case with the regulator.
SMNI through its legal counsel Mark Tolentino described the NTC order as “unconstitutional.”
“It is clear in our jurisprudence (that) any order, ruling, decision of any government agency that affects freedom of the press and freedom of expression are considered unconstitutional,” he was quoted saying in television reports aired Thursday. —With Rio N. Araja