On September 24, 2023, the trending hashtag #MTRCB became the headline news following Joey de Leon’s comment on the Gimme 5 segment of the E.A.T. program. In that particular episode, Joey de Leon remarked that a rope (lubid) was also among the things put around one’s neck. This comment quickly went viral and elicited significant reactions from netizens.
The MTRCB (Movie and Television Review and Classification Board) had previously been at the center of controversy due to its 12-day suspension of the “It’s Showtime” program. This action was taken in response to an “Isip Bata” segment where the hosts, Vice Ganda and Ion Perez, engaged in a daring act involving the consumption of cake icing using their fingers.
One of the voices of criticism was the self-proclaimed motivational speaker, Rendon Labador. Labador expressed his opinions on social media platforms, which became a subject of both support and opposition. In the days that followed, Labador’s social media accounts disappeared due to the numerous reports and complaints against him.
The suspension of “It’s Showtime” had not been lifted at the time of this statement’s submission to the MTRCB, resulting in widespread controversy and public debate on social media.
Amidst these controversies, netizens now focused on Joey de Leon’s statement about the rope (lubid) on E.A.T.’s Gimme 5 segment last Saturday, September 23, 2023, where he mentioned its connection to “suicide.” As many are aware, the MTRCB plays a crucial role in regulating television programs, especially given its guidelines aimed at maintaining quality and decency.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge faced by media watchdogs like the MTRCB in ensuring the quality and appropriateness of television programs. It also demonstrates the power of social media in mobilizing widespread discussion and scrutiny of societal issues.
Meanwhile, the MTRCB has issued an official statement regarding this issue, and here is their official statement.