MANILA – The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) on Thursday denounced the "alarming online attacks" that chairperson Lala Sotto has been getting.
"Netizens have taken to the official social media pages of the MTRCB to express their grievances in an inappropriate and harmful manner, raising serious concerns about the safety and security of the chairperson," it said in a statement.
The MTRCB added that "no Filipino deserves such kind of unfounded personal attack," urging the public not to resort to personal attacks as the agency "is just doing its mandate."
It can be recalled that the MTRCB recently ordered a 12-day suspension of the noontime show "It's Showtime" for the apparent indecent acts of hosts Vice Ganda and Ion Perez in one segment.
Since then, Sotto has been hit with backlash by some netizens, accusing her of being biased since her father works in the rival show.
Some netizens also questioned why Sotto, as MTRCB chair, did not consider her parent's kiss on national TV as inappropriate.
The MTRCB, in a statement, backed Sotto, saying she is "a dedicated public servant who has spent her career advocating for responsible and inclusive media content."
Sotto has consistently championed the importance of media content that respects cultural sensitivities while contributing positively to the Philippine entertainment industry, MTRCB vice chairman Njel de Mesa said.
"While the MTRCB recognizes the importance of constructive criticism and open dialogue, it strongly condemns any form of threats, harassment, or violence, both online and offline. Such behavior is not only illegal but also runs counter to the principles of a Filipino value-based media and entertainment culture that the MTRCB upholds," the statement read. (PNA)
