MTRCB: Pros, cons to be weighed in on regulating online streaming sites

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) assured a balanced review on expanding its jurisdiction to cover online streaming sites.

File photo: Vivamax app

All concerns to be weighed in

In a report by Manila Bulletin, MTRCB chairperson Diorella Maria Sotto-Antonio said the board members will weigh the pros and cons of widening its regulatory powers to also cover the contents of online streaming platforms. 

The matter will go through the process and will be discussed by the Board. We will assess the impact of legislators' call to expand the Board’s jurisdiction to cover online streaming platforms and applications and come up with a balanced and fair position,” Antonio said. 

Under Presidential Decree no. 1986, the MTRCB was created to review and classify movies, television programs, and related publicity and/or promotional materials in categories like "G" for a general audience, "PG" for parental guidance, and "SPG" for strong parental guidance.

However, as was mentioned, the law limits its regulatory powers to television and movies only. 

MTRCB noted there have been contrasting views on the regulation of videos on online sites.

Some groups, many of which include parents, support the idea.

Meanwhile, some express concern about the proposed move since this could prompt companies to collect or increase subscription fees which will be a disadvantage for users.

The press release from MTRCB

We will balance all concerns raised by various groups. I assure the public that the MTRCB shares everyones’ desire to ensure that children are not exposed to content that is not appropriate for their age, Antonio said. 

In an earlier hearing, Antonio raised the idea.

Despite not having jurisdiction over Netflix and Amazon Prime, the companies have been coordinating with the Board regarding their contents, she noted. 

Do you think this will push through?

Source: Manila Bulletin