The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) confirmed that the producers of the noontime television show “E.A.T.” submitted an apology letter regarding the "lubid" (rope) comment of their host, Joey de Leon.
During a hearing of the Senate finance subcommittee on Wednesday, tackling the 2024 proposed budget, the MTRCB head, Diorella "Lala" Sotto-Antonio, said that the show's producers voluntarily went to their office and submitted an apology letter after the said episode.
The submission of the apology letter was also confirmed by the MTRCB chairperson of the adjudication board, Atty. Paul Cases, who noted that they are already studying the complaints they received regarding the issue.
“We already took cognizance of the complaints that we received on our social media page. We’re going to discuss it after the legal case brings the same matter before the adjudication committee,” said Cases.
In a letter dated September 25, MTRCB said the letter is intended to "explain" the incident that occurred on September 23, 2023 during E.A.T.'s Gimme 5 segment, when one of the main hosts of the show, Joey, commented, "lubid," on objects that could hang around the neck.
"During the said incident, Mr. Joey De Leon suggested 'lubid' as an answer to a question regarding things that may be worn around the neck. He conveyed this verbally in a very brief manner without further actions, elaborations, or demonstrations," the E.A.T production said.
"However, some viewers interpreted the utterance of the said object to be an insinuation of suicide, which is a very sensitive and triggering subject," it added.
Meanwhile, the producers reassured that they stand in solidarity with MTRCB in advocating responsible viewing experiences for the general public.
Online criticism of Joey's comment has prompted calls for the MTRCB to take immediate action.
