The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has reclassified “Alipato at Muog” with an R-16 rating following a comprehensive second review by a five-member committee.
In a statement released yesterday, the Board explained that the decision was made after carefully evaluating the film’s content, balancing the constitutionally protected right to freedom of expression with the state’s duty to maintain public order and morality.
The review committee, chaired by Atty. Maria Gabriela Concepcion and composed of Atty. Paulino Cases, Jr., film and TV producer JoAnn Bañaga, music producer Eloisa Matias, and retired educator Maria Carmen Musngi, concluded that the documentary’s mature themes and serious subject matter require a more discerning audience. The committee determined that viewers aged 16 and above are better suited to process the film’s content.
The MTRCB also clarified that films shown for educational purposes in academic settings still fall under its jurisdiction.
According to Section 7 of Presidential Decree No. 1986 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, only films produced or exhibited by the Philippine government or its agencies are exempt from MTRCB review.
