The UP Film Institute (UPFI) and the Directors’ Guild of the Philippines Inc. (DGPI) have denounced Senate Bill 2805, which seeks to expand the regulatory powers of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).
The UPFI warned the bill threatens artistic freedom and expression by extending MTRCB’s jurisdiction to online streaming content, calling it a move that could suppress innovation and self-regulation in the creative industry.
The DGPI, meanwhile, said the measure’s “draconian” provisions are counterproductive to government efforts to revive the local film sector. It argued the law is unnecessary and undermines both content creators’ and viewers’ rights.
“The bill imposes narrow standards that don’t reflect the diversity of Filipino society,” the UPFI added in a statement.
In response, the MTRCB defended its mandate, insisting it respects artistic freedom and does not impose prior restraint on content. “There is no mandatory review before the content is shown,” the agency said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “UP film school, directors group oppose bill expanding MTRCB powers”
