MTRCB vs ABS-CBN

On October 15, 1991, This case is about an epsidode of the the ABS CBN show titled “Prosti-tuition”
which highlights the lives of students using prostitution as a means to pay in their school fees. This
caused an outrage in the PWU community as it made mention of their school and the background of the
episode. They filed a complaint in the MTRCB and MTRCB stated that ABS CBN failed to disclose and
turnover the series for review and is violative of the rules and regualtions of the MTRCB and violating PD
1986 particularly section 7 which states that motion pictures needs to go through review from the board.
MTRCB wants ABS CBN to pay 20,000 but ABS CBN filed a special civil action for certiorari and was
deemed the winner in RTC ruling annulling the decision and resolution of the MTRCB leading to the the
current petition.

Issue: WON MTRCB has the power, authority, and jurisdiction to review Inside story prior to it being
broadcasted.

Ruling: Yes, MTRCB has the right, section 3 of the PD1968 enumerates the functions and duties of the
board to review all motion pictures, and this includes all tv programs and publication materials. IN INC vs
CA PD 1968 gives MTRCB the capacity to review and examine all programs with no exceptions unless
there is a compelling reason. There are exemptions 1. TV programs directly from gov, departments, and
agencies 2. Newsreels. In a last attempt ABS CBN wants to classify Inside Story as a Newsreels however
MTRCB rules and regulations states that NEwreel is exclusively defined as a straight and direct reporting
not through documentary, talk show, and opinions.

It is also important to note that that MTRCB’s power to review television programs under section 3 of
pd1986 does not amount to prior restraint.

MTRCB vs ABS – CBN

On October 15, 1991, ABS show Inside Story has an episode called “Prosti-tuition” which shows a story
of several students uses prostitution as means to pay school fees. PWU communities showed mixed
reactions and ultimately reported to MTRCB.

MTRCB stated that ABS CBN did not turn over to them the show of Inside Story and was deemed
violative of Section 7 of PD 1968 which states that all shows before its publication must go through
review from the board. Then ABS CBN was ordered to pay 20,000 for the non-commission of the
program.

ABS CBN filed for a special civil action within the RTC and won, dismissing the decision and resolution of
the MTRCB and claimed that The Inside Story is a public affairs program and news documentary which is
guarded by the constitutional right of freedom of expression.

Issue: WON MTRCB has the power to review Inside Story prior to its broadcast
Ruling

Yes, The MTRCB has the right to review