MTRCB summons ‘It’s Showtime’ over complaints on July 24 episode

The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has summoned the producers of 'It's Showtime' following complaints over allegedly inappropriate scenes and racially insensitive remarks aired during the noontime program's July 24 episode.In a notice to appear signed by MTRCB Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Lala Sotto, by authority of the MTRCB Board, the agency directed GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corp., through their authorized representatives or legal counsel, to appear before the MTRCB Hearing and Adjudication Committee on July 29 at 10:30 a.m.The MTRCB said it received numerous complaints from viewers, as well as a report from its Monitoring and Inspection Unit, regarding a 'Memerimar' skit in the show's 'Laro Laro Pick' segment.According to the agency, the complaints centered on remarks made by host and comedian Vice Ganda that were alleged to be racist and colorist, as well as a separate 'lugaw' scene involving Vice Ganda and co-host Ion Perez.The board said the allegations raised questions on whether the program complied with Section 3(c) of Presidential Decree No. 1986, which prohibits the exhibition of television programs that are contrary to law, good customs, public order or public morals, or are otherwise objectionable.The producers were instructed to submit proof of authority for their representatives before the scheduled hearing. The MTRCB added that failure to appear would be deemed a waiver of their right to present evidence, and the case would be resolved based on the records before the board.The controversy erupted after a comedy segment featuring Johaira, a member of 'It's Showtime's' resident dance group, Baby Dolls, drew criticism on social media.During the live 'Memerimar' skit, Vice Ganda spat water onto Johaira's face as part of a slapstick routine. Moments later, the host remarked, 'Anong nangyari sa 'yo? Ba't nagputik ka?' ('What happened to you? Why do you look like you're covered in mud?').Clips of the segment quickly circulated online, prompting accusations of colorism and insensitive humor. Many viewers argued that the joke referenced Johaira's skin tone and crossed the line from comedy to humiliation.Before the end of the July 25 episode, Vice Ganda addressed the controversy on air, acknowledging that some viewers had found the show's jokes and the 'Memerimar' segment offensive or insensitive.The comedian said the production had become aware of the concerns and emphasized that 'the last thing we want is to displease you or fail to make our 'madlang people' happy."Vice Ganda said the program recognized the audience's sentiments and apologized to those who were offended.'We will try to do better. Thank you very, very much,' the host said.The apology came a day before the MTRCB issued its notice summoning the show's producers to explain the complaints during the scheduled hearing.