Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) Chairperson Lala Sotto-Antonio addressed concerns about potential “conflict of interest” following the MTRCB’s recent decision to deny Motions of Reconsideration (MRs) related to the suspension of the noontime variety show ‘It’s Showtime.’
In a press conference held on September 28, the MTRCB reaffirmed its earlier ruling to suspend ‘It’s Showtime!’ for 12 airing days due to an alleged indecent incident during the show’s ‘Isip Bata’ segment on July 25. The incident involved host-comedian Vice Ganda licking icing off the fingers of co-host Ion Perez.
The MTRCB also cited the show’s history of preventive suspensions as a contributing factor in its decision.
Atty. Paulino “Sonny” Cases, a board member who leads the adjudication committee responsible for the case, emphasized that Sotto-Antonio had abstained from participating in the decision-making process to ensure an impartial judgment.
He explained that the next course of action for ‘It’s Showtime’ is to file an appeal with the Office of the President within a 15-day window. If this appeal is unsuccessful, the show can file another MR with Malacañang. If Malacañang also rejects the MR, the case can be escalated to the Court of Appeals and ultimately to the Supreme Court.
When questioned about the suspension of the entire ‘It’s Showtime’ program rather than just the ‘Isip Bata’ segment, Sotto-Antonio clarified that the MTRCB has the authority to suspend a network or production but segment removal falls under the network’s jurisdiction.
“We chose to suspend the production instead… the removal of a segment is on them as well.”
Despite concerns from the public regarding a possible conflict of interest due to her father hosting a competing show, Sotto-Antonio asserted that her Sotto lineage should not be held against her.
She emphasized her deep affection for and comprehension of the industry, asserting that she is dutifully performing her role. She expressed her unwavering commitment to her position as MTRCB chair and dismissed detractors’ opinions, stating that she remains steadfast in the face of criticism.
Sotto-Antonio shared her upbringing in the public eye and her resilience in the face of scrutiny and criticism. She maintained her unwavering dedication to her role at the MTRCB, highlighting that she remains unfazed by detractors’ remarks.
