The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) released a statement on Thursday, condemning "disturbing threats" targeting its chairperson, Lala Sotto, as netizens are expressing their grievances in an inappropriate and harmful manner.

Over the past weeks, the regulatory board has received an "unfortunate surge in threatening messages" on their social media pages, including explicit rapes and death threats, raising serious concerns about Sotto’s safety and security.

According to MTRCB Vice Chairman Njel De Mesa, Sotto has been dedicated to her responsibility as chairperson and has consistently championed the importance of media content respecting cultural sensitivities.

For his part, MTRCB Executive Director II, Atty. Mamarico Sansarona Jr. said that no Filipino deserves this kind of unfounded personal attack, emphasizing that the agency is only fulfilling its mandate and that the public should not resort to personal attacks.

Moreover, the MTRCB is open to constructive criticism and dialogue but surely does not tolerate any form of threat, harassment, or violence.

It added that the MTRCB will remain steadfast in its mission to make sure that television and movie content aligns with the cultural values and norms of the Philippines.