MTRCB defends ‘X’ rating on ‘Alipato at Muog’ and ‘Dear Satan’
Metro Manila, Philippines – The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) stood pat on its decision to ban the public viewing of Cinemalaya film “Alipato at Muog” and another controversial film, “Dear Satan.”
“Alipato at Muog” is JL Burgos’s documentary about the abduction of his brother, activist Jonas Burgos, in 2007. The MTRCB gave it an “X” rating, which means it is not suitable for public viewing, and was allowed to be shown only at the Cinemalaya Film Festival.
During a Senate hearing on the MTRCB’s proposed 2025 budget, finance subcommittee chairman Senator Jinggoy Estrada raised complaints that the board’s decision infringes on freedom of expression and the public right to know.
In response, MTRCB Chairperson Lala Sotto-Antonio said, “We all know that freedom of expression is not absolute nor limitless, that is why there is a law in place.”
She said the decision is in line with Presidential Decree 1986, which authorizes the board to reject films that “undermine the faith and confidence of the people in their government and/or the duly constituted authorities.”
Sotto-Antonio said the MTRCB gave the filmmaker an “exemption permit” for Cinemalaya.
“That is not curtailing freedom of expression or creation. They have also conducted academic film showings which we didn’t stop them from. That is not curtailing freedom of expression,” she said.
The MTRCB chief said a second review is scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 5, following the appeal filed by Burgos’s camp.
Estrada, an actor-turned-lawmaker, also asked about the “X” rating on Christmas-themed movie “Dear Satan,” starring Paolo Contis and child star Sienna Stevens.
“I have seen the film. I joined the board. I am offended as a Christian,” Sotto-Antonio said.
“It is not demonic but it is a depiction of – it has a different depiction of Satan becoming good, Satan will never ever be good,” she added.
No appeal has been filed for “Dear Satan,” but producer Mavx Productions has issued an apology, saying “it was never our intention to hurt or disrespect anyone’s religious beliefs.”
It said the movie aimed to explore “the theme of good versus evil, showcasing how an innocent child, guided by faith and the goodness of the Lord, can resist temptation and embody the virtues of righteousness.”
