MTRCB to continue pushing for responsible viewing as Senate OKs higher budget

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) said it will continue its advocacy of protecting Filipino audiences, especially the young viewers, as the Senate approved its proposed P75.2-million budget for fiscal year 2026. 

The MTRCB’s new total appropriations, as proposed by the Senate Committee on Finance, was higher by P23.2 million than what was proposed under the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) and the House-approved General Appropriations Bill at P51.9 million.

MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto, daughter of Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, thanked the Senate for its continued support for the agency’s goal of protecting Filipino viewers and promoting the interests of the nation’s film and television industry.

“This approval strengthens our commitment to protect audiences, especially Filipino children, uphold responsible and age-appropriate viewing, and continue empowering the film and television industry,” Lala Sotto said in a statement.

“This will enhance the work productivity of the employees and allow the agency to fulfill its mandate to the public,” she added. 

The MTRCB said that the higher budget would guarantee the continuation of its priority programs, including the nationwide “Responsableng Panonood” campaign, monitoring systems and expanded partnerships with industry stakeholders, local government units, schools and community organizations.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada sponsored and presented the MTRCB budget before the Senate plenary on Monday. — Giselle Ombay/RSJ, GMA Integrated News