‘It’s Showtime’ producers ordered to explain controversial skit

THE Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has summoned the producers of noontime show 'It's Showtime' following complaints over allegedly inappropriate scenes and racially insensitive remarks aired during the program's July 24 episode.In a notice to appear, the MTRCB said it received numerous complaints from concerned citizens regarding the actions and statements of host and comedian Vice Ganda (real name: Jose Marie Viceral).The complaints stemmed from a 'Memerimar' skit featured in the program's 'Laro Laro Pick' segment, in which Vice Ganda jokingly told Baby Dolls member Johaira that she looked 'covered in mud' after a slapstick routine, a remark that some viewers interpreted as referring to her skin tone.According to the MTRCB, viewers specifically raised concerns about alleged racist and colorist remarks made during the segment, as well as a 'lugaw' scene involving Vice Ganda and Ion Perez.The agency directed representatives of GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp. to appear before its Hearing and Adjudication Committee on July 29 to address the complaints.Before the end of the July 25 episode, Vice Ganda publicly apologized for the jokes made during the previous day's broadcast.'We acknowledge your sentiments, and we sincerely apologize to you. ... We will strive to do better,' Vice Ganda said during the on-air apology.The MTRCB said the allegations raised questions on whether the program complied with Section 3(c) of Presidential Decree 1986, which prohibits television programs that are contrary to law, good customs, public order, public morals, or are otherwise objectionable.The board also instructed the respondents to submit proof of authority authorizing their representatives to appear before the hearing committee.MTRCB said that failure to appear at the scheduled hearing would be deemed a waiver of their right to present evidence and the case would be resolved based on available records.