Philippines: Introduced Video and Online Games and Outdoor Media Regulation Act (SB No.1063)

On 8 August 2022, the Video and Online Games and Outdoor Media Regulation Act was introduced to the Senate of the Philippines. The Act would amend the purpose presidential decree No. 1986, known as "creating the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB)". The Act would expand MTRCB's jurisdiction to include content moderation for video games and outdoor media. The amendment safeguards children from harmful content across these digital platforms. The MTRCB can now also approve, disapprove, or modify the content of video games and outdoor media, like the board does with content of movies, TV programs, series, and promotional materials intended for public viewing in the Philippines. The board applies contemporary Filipino cultural values to determine whether content is objectionable, based on criteria like immorality, indecency, violations of law, or threats to public order, health, or safety. Specifically, the board can act against content that incites rebellion, undermines confidence in the government, glorifies crime, promotes violence or pornography, supports drug use, defames individuals, disrespects court proceedings, or incites discrimination, hostility, or prejudice against any group.