The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has directed the producers and showrunners of “It’s Showtime” to submit a verified joint position paper within seven calendar days in response to complaints alleging racism and other inappropriate content in the program’s “Memerimar” skit aired on July 24, 2026.
The directive was issued after the MTRCB’s Hearing and Adjudication Committee conducted a hearing on Wednesday, July 29, with representatives and legal counsels of the noontime program, as well as ABS-CBN Corporation, GMA Network Inc., Zoe Broadcasting Network, Inc., and ALLTV.
In a statement, the MTRCB said the hearing formed part of the due process required under Presidential Decree No. 1986 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, giving the parties an opportunity to explain the issues raised against the program.
Following the hearing, the committee—composed of Chairperson Board Member Atty. Ricardo “Jojo” M. Salomon Jr., and board members, Atty. Pedro Cesar Gabriel “Chet” A. Solidum and Board Member Wilma V. Galvante—ordered the respondents to comply with several requirements.
“The Committee directed the respondents to file a verified Joint Position Paper within seven (7) calendar days from receipt of the Order, in accordance with the Board’s rules and procedures,” the MTRCB said.
The agency also instructed the respondents to submit a Joint Undertaking detailing concrete measures to strengthen compliance with MTRCB standards, particularly for live, improvised, and comedy segments.
In addition, the MTRCB ordered the program to appoint an on-air compliance officer who will be authorized to monitor live broadcasts and immediately intervene when necessary to prevent possible violations of the Board’s rules and regulations.
“The respondents were likewise instructed to designate an On-Air Compliance Officer authorized to monitor live broadcasts and immediately intervene, when necessary, to help prevent potential violations of MTRCB rules and regulations,” the agency said.
The MTRCB emphasized that the case remains pending and that no final ruling has been made.
“As the matter remains under consideration, the Board shall refrain from making any further statement that may prejudge its final disposition,” it added.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring responsible television programming and protecting Filipino viewers, particularly children, while taking into account public feedback on broadcast content.
The complaints stem from the “Memerimar” comedy skit aired during the July 24 episode of “It’s Showtime,” which drew criticism from viewers over alleged racist and inappropriate portrayals. The MTRCB is expected to evaluate the respondents’ submissions before issuing its final decision.
