The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has suspended the popular noontime show “It’s Showtime” for 12 airing days following complaints against the show. The suspension was issued on Monday, September 4, 2023, and is effective immediately.
The suspension came after viewers lodged multiple complaints against the show’s July 25, 2023 episode, which allegedly featured indecent acts of romantic partners and hosts Vice Ganda and Ion Perez during one of its segments, “Isip Bata”. Perez smeared cake icing on his finger and licked it off. He then shared it with his partner, Ganda, who scooped some of the icing off Perez’s finger and ate it. The act was a violation of Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 1986 (MTRCB Charter).
“In accordance with the Presidential Decree (P.D.) No. 1986 (MTRCB Charter), the respondents may file one Motion for Reconsideration (MR) within fifteen (15) days after receipt of the decision. Should the Board’s Decision be adverse to the respondent’s MR, they may appeal to the Office of the President within fifteen (15) days from the receipt of the decision on the MR,” the MTRCB’s latest statement said.
The MTRCB has also noted “additional warnings” on the use of “inappropriate language” in previous episodes of the show 4. The decision has been met with mixed reactions from fans of the show, with some calling it unfair and others supporting the MTRCB’s decision 52.
The suspension of “It’s Showtime” has been met with mixed reactions from viewers. Some viewers have expressed support for the MTRCB’s decision, while others have criticized it as being too harsh.