Cable TV networks warned vs airing of anti-Islam film

MANILA, Philippines - The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) is monitoring all cable television networks to ensure that the controversial anti-Islam film “Innocence of Muslims” would not be aired in any of the channels that get direct satellite signals.

Eugene Villareal, MTRCB spokesman, said that MTRCB deputies are now monitoring the cable channels to insure that the controversial film will not be shown.

“We will immediately call the attention of the cable managers once there is an attempt to show the film,” he said.

Villareal said although the MTRCB has not yet received the official copy of the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court (SC), they are already on alert for possible public showing of the film.

MTRCB chair Grace Poe-Llamanzares said the agency would enforce the TRO issued by the SC against the controversial film.

Llamanzares clarified that it was already the official stand of the agency that “Innocence of Muslims” will not be screened in any theater in the country.

The MTRCB chair said that the film would immediately be given an “X” rating (not suitable for public viewing), citing an MTRCB provision that prohibits “exhibition of any material or a dangerous tendency towards violence.”

Llamanzares also said although the MTRCB has no power over the Internet, they can coordinate with the National Telecommunications Commission and Internet carries to ban access to the website showing the film.