THE Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has reminded operators of public utility vehicles (PUVs) and other common carriers to strictly screen only age-appropriate films for passengers, especially as travel volume is expected to surge during the Holy Week.
In a memorandum dated March 24, the Board directed all operators of common carriers to comply with existing rules on film exhibition inside vehicles.
“The Board reminds all common carrier operators that only motion pictures and/or trailers classified by the Board as for general patronage or ‘G’ and parental guidance or ‘PG’ shall be exhibited inside such common carriers,” the memorandum said.
A “G” or General Patronage rating means the film is suitable for all audiences, with no content that may be harmful or inappropriate for children, MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto explained.
Meanwhile, a “PG” or Parental Guidance rating indicates that the material may contain some themes or scenes that require guidance from parents or supervising adults, particularly for younger viewers.
The directive covers all common carriers, including bus operators, sea vessel operators, and similar modes of public transportation that show films or video content to passengers.
To ensure compliance, Chairperson Sotto said the Agency’s monitoring and inspection unit will continue to conduct on-ground inspections.
Last week, the unit carried out two inspections to remind bus operators and passengers of the rules on allowable film content inside public transport.
Sotto said the rule is meant to protect commuters, particularly minors, who may be exposed 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.
“By showing only ‘G’ and ‘PG’ content, operators help create a more respectful and family-friendly environment for everyone on board,” she added. Sotto said the reminder is part of the agency’s broader push for “Responsableng Panonood,” which promotes mindful and guided media consumption.
The Board warned that operators who fail to comply may face suspension or cancellation of permits, as well as fines and other administrative penalties.
Meanwhile, Sotto said the MTRCB joins the nation in observing the Holy Week and asked the Filipinos to pause, reflect and draw meaning from the solemn occasion.
“This is a time for reflection and togetherness. May the observance of the Holy Week bring hope, renewed strength, compassion and solidarity to all,” she said.