Actor and comedian Janno Gibbs has responded to Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada’s critique of the streaming platform VMX, defending the platform’s content and addressing the senator’s concerns about indecency and its impact on societal values.
Estrada previously called out platforms like VMX for allegedly promoting explicit and obscene material, describing their content as lacking “redeeming values.” In his privilege speech, Estrada cited Article 201 of the Revised Penal Code, which prohibits the distribution of immoral or indecent content, and called for stricter oversight of streaming services.
During an interview, Janno, who stars in a new gag show on VMX, defended the platform, emphasizing its private nature and audience restrictions.
“It’s a different platform. It’s indeed private in nature at kung hindi ka subscriber, ‘di ka naman magkakaroon ng access,” Janno explained. “Meron din s’yang child lock feature to secure na nasa mga edad na ang puwedeng makapag-subscribe.”
He also highlighted the employment opportunities created by VMX for artists and crew members. “There may be some bad eggs, but still nasa discretion ‘yan ng manonood o subscriber,” he said.
Estrada criticized streaming platforms like VMX and Vivamax during a Senate session, arguing that they have become hubs for sexual and exploitative content. He expressed concern about their accessibility and the potential impact on minors, despite these platforms’ self-regulation agreements.
“These platforms normalize content that undermines fundamental principles of respect, decency, and empathy, which are essential for social cohesion,” Estrada said. He also revealed reports of alleged abuse among artists involved in creating explicit content, further urging tighter regulation of these platforms.
Janno countered Estrada’s concerns by calling for a more balanced approach to addressing societal issues. He suggested focusing on values education in schools, stricter enforcement of laws against sex offenders, and community programs for parents and guardians.
“Dapat sigurong mas tingnan at paigtingin ng mga mambabatas natin ‘yung mga isyu sa values education sa mga schools, rules sa mga opisina, at i-implement ang matapang na batas sa mga rapists, sex offenders at magkaroon ng programa sa mga parents, guardians and the likes ang bawat community tungkol sa pag-guard sa values at edukasyon ng mga minor sa usaping sex, etc..,” Janno said.
He also defended the creative nature of VMX content, stating, “I see nothing wrong or indecent in our show. While it’s naughty and playful, the interpretation of jokes and performances ultimately depends on the viewer.”
While lawmakers like Estrada push for stricter oversight, artists like Janno Gibbs emphasize the platforms’ contribution to the industry and the importance of personal responsibility among viewers.
