Politics · Philippines Bureau
MTRCB says ready to regulate streaming platforms if Congress grants mandate
The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board has signaled its capacity to oversee online streaming services and subscription platforms, provided Congress expands its regulatory powers. The assurance came during a Senate hearing where lawmakers discussed the agency's preparedness for digital content oversight.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA – The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has expressed readiness to regulate online streaming platforms and subscription video-on-demand services if Congress grants it the legal authority to do so.
MTRCB Chairperson Diorella Maria "Lala" Sotto-Antonio made the declaration during a Senate hearing on Friday, responding to questions from Senator Erwin Tulfo regarding the agency's capacity to oversee digital content delivery platforms.
"The MTRCB is prepared to take on this responsibility if mandated by Congress," Sotto-Antonio said, indicating the board possesses the institutional framework and expertise necessary to classify and regulate online services in addition to its current jurisdiction over theatrical and broadcast content.
The statement underscores ongoing legislative discussions about extending the MTRCB's authority beyond traditional media to address the growing consumption of content through streaming platforms, which currently operates in a largely unregulated environment in the Philippines.
Congress would need to amend existing legislation to formally expand the MTRCB's mandate to include online platforms, a process that has been under consideration as lawmakers seek to establish comprehensive content standards across all media formats.