The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) marked its 40th anniversary with a star-studded celebration held at Solaire North Resort in Quezon City on October 15, 2025.
The milestone event gathered some of the country’s biggest names in film and television in honoring four decades of MTRCB’s service to the entertainment industry.
Among the celebrities spotted at the celebration were Coco Martin, Julia Montes, Cherry Pie Picache, John Estrada, Angel Aquino, Big Mak Andaya, and Direk Malu Sevilla, who posed for photos and mingled with fellow artists during the event.
Also present were Vic Sotto, Pauleen Luna, Joey de Leon, Senate President Tito Sotto, Helen Gamboa, Jose Manalo, Alan K, Wally Bayola, Ryza Mae Dizon, Mariel Rodriguez, and Ciara Sotto.
Other celebrities in attendance included Tirso Cruz III, Roderick Paulate, Jericho Rosales, Kaila Estrada, Jak Roberto, Mikee Quintos, Kaizel Kinouchi, Angelu de Leon, Jackie Gonzaga, Cianne Dominguez, Laurice Guillen, Ana Feleo, Almira Muhlach, Ashley Ortega, and River Joseph.
ABS-CBN executives Mark Lopez, Carlo Katigbak, Cory Vidanes, and Charo Santos-Concio were also in attendance, along with GMA Network and Sparkle executives Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes and Joy Marcelo, and TV5 CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan.
LALA SOTTO INTRODUCES MTRCB'S P.R.O.T.E.C.T GUIDE FOR RESPONSIBLE VIEWING
MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto led the festivities, emphasizing the agency’s continuing mission to uphold responsible media and adapt to the ever-evolving entertainment landscape in the digital era.
She also highlighted the board’s commitment to keeping pace with rapid changes in media by forging partnerships with international organizations and strengthening efforts to promote responsible content consumption among Filipino families.
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In her speech during MTRCB’s 40th celebration, Lala shared that the board has expanded its work beyond traditional platforms, establishing collaborations with major digital and streaming companies as well as global regulatory bodies.
"We have expanded our efforts beyond traditional platforms, forging meaningful collaborations with various digital and streaming giants, as well as global industry organizations like the Asia Video Industry Association, Korea Media Rating Board, and the International Institute of Communications," Lala said.
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She added that the MTRCB is also in ongoing discussions with the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) to further align its policies with international standards
"We continue to learn from global best practices, and embrace the principles of safety-by-design approach," she noted.
Lala said these initiatives aim to ensure that the board’s advocacy remains relevant and effective in addressing how Filipinos consume content today.
Recognizing the vital role of parents in guiding their children’s viewing habits, the MTRCB has also introduced "PROTECT", a key component of its Responsableng Panonood campaign.
The PROTECT acronym stands for: Provide guidelines on age-appropriate content; Regulate screen time and set healthy limit; Observe co-viewing; Teach media literacy; Educate children on the impact of media; Create a family viewing plan; and Take the lead by setting an example in responsible viewing and content consumption
Lala noted: "Through PROTECT, we remind families that while the government and industry practice co-regulation and fulfill their roles, the most important guidance comes from home."
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The night featured special performances, tributes to past MTRCB chairpersons and board members, and recognition of individuals who have contributed to the advancement of ethical and quality entertainment in the Philippines.
It was hosted by award-winning anchor Rico Hizon, now with ANC, and award-winning singer Pops Fernandez.
Established in 1985 by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 1986, the MTRCB continues to play a crucial role in classifying movies and television programs, ensuring that Filipino audiences are provided with appropriate and responsible viewing materials.
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