‘Pangako Sa ‘Yo’ to be checked by MTRCB over ‘sexual overtones’

MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATED) The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) said that ABS-CBN representatives have apologized following a complaint about the dialogue used in an episode of Pangako Sa’Yo.

In a text message to Rappler, MTRCB chairman Toto Villareal said that the executives will submit concrete steps to avoid any repetition of the offense.

“There was admission by program reps that there was a lapse and [they’ve] apologized for it. They will submit by June 17 concrete steps to avoid repetition. Resolution will include action on such concrete steps. It will also include as determined today, 3 months period of close collaboration and monitoring, exercise of self regulation and consult with MTRCB on ‘best practices’ on audience-sensitivity if needed,” he said. 

This comes after the MTRCB summoned the executives and directors of the show in a letter dated June 4, over the lines used by actress Pilar Pilapil in the May 29 episode of the show.

In the said episode, Pilar’s character Doña Benita told son Eduardo Buenavista (Ian Veneracion): “Kung pampalipas-libog lang iyan, that’s okay. Go ahead (If that’s just for sex, that’s okay. Go ahead).”

According to the letter posted on the MTRCB website, Villareal said that the dialogue was for a mature audience.

“The scene, if left unexplained, also cuts into the dignity of the woman and the integrity of an impending marriage – which is a protected institution under the Constitution. Under these considerations, the scene is beyond the program’s granted rating of ‘PG’ (Parental Guidance),” said the post. 

Meanwhile in a statement, ABS-CBN said they will work with the MTRCB on the matter.

“ABS-CBN apologizes for the strong language used in the May 29 episode of Pangako Sa’ Yo. We recognize our responsibility to our viewers and will work closely with the MTRCB to prevent it from happening again,” said Kane Errol Choa, head of ABS-CBN Corporate Communications.

This not the first time MTRCB summoned ABS-CBN over a show. Last August,  the management and comedian Vice Ganda were summoned for his used of “sexual overtones” on his two shows, It’s Showtime and Gandang Gabi Vice. – Rappler.com