The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has issued a reminder to public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and other common carriers to strictly screen only age‑appropriate films for passengers, as travel volume is expected to surge during the Holy Week.
In a memorandum dated March 24, the Board directed all operators to comply with existing rules on film exhibition inside public transport.
“Only motion pictures and trailers classified by the Board as General Patronage (‘G’) or Parental Guidance (‘PG’) shall be exhibited inside common carriers,” the directive stated.
MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto explained that a “G” rating indicates content suitable for all audiences, while a “PG” rating may contain themes or scenes requiring parental supervision, particularly for younger viewers. The directive applies to buses, sea vessels, and other carriers that show films or video content during travel.
To ensure compliance, the agency’s monitoring and inspection unit has been conducting on‑ground checks, including two inspections last week to remind bus operators and passengers of the rules. Sotto emphasized that the policy aims to protect commuters, especially minors, from exposure to inappropriate content during long trips.
“As families travel together this Holy Week, we want to ensure that what is shown inside public transport remains safe and appropriate for all passengers, especially children,” Sotto said. She added that by limiting content to “G” and “PG” classifications, operators help foster a respectful and family‑friendly travel environment.
The reminder forms part of the agency’s broader “Responsableng Panonood” campaign, which promotes mindful and guided media consumption. The Board warned that operators who fail to comply may face suspension or cancellation of permits, fines, and other administrative penalties.
Sotto also noted that the MTRCB joins the nation in observing Holy Week, encouraging Filipinos to pause, reflect, and draw meaning from the solemn occasion.
