The Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) has summoned the producers of ‘It’s Showtime’ following numerous complaints over the program’s July 24, 2026 episode, which drew criticism for allegedly containing inappropriate scenes and racially insensitive and colorist remarks involving host Vice Ganda.
In a statement released to the media, the MTRCB said it had received multiple complaints from concerned citizens regarding a ‘Memerimar’ skit featured in the noontime show’s ‘Laro Laro Pick’ segment, as well as another scene involving Vice Ganda and co-host Ion Perez.
According to the agency, the complaints were supported by a report from its Monitoring and Inspection Unit (MIU).
“Based on countless letter complaints received and a report from the Agency’s Monitoring and Inspection Unit (MIU), the incident in question was a ‘Memerimar’ skit in the noontime TV show’s ‘Laro Laro Pick’ segment.”
The MTRCB added that concerned viewers specifically questioned Vice Ganda’s alleged racist and colorist remarks toward Baby Dolls member Johaira Moris, as well as the “lugaw” scene featuring Vice and Perez.
During the July 24 live episode, Vice sprayed water toward Johaira as part of the comedy skit before saying, “Anong nangyari sa ‘yo? Bakit nagputik ka?” The remark drew criticism online, with some viewers arguing that it could be interpreted as referring to Johaira’s skin tone. Another segment, in which Perez poured lugaw into Vice’s mouth, was likewise criticized by some viewers, who questioned whether it was appropriate for a family-oriented noontime program.
The agency issued a two-page Notice to Appear, directing GMA Network Inc. and ABS-CBN Corporation, through their authorized representatives or legal counsel, to attend a hearing before the MTRCB Hearing and Adjudication Committee on July 29, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.
The notice, signed by MTRCB Chairperson and CEO Lala Sotto by authority of the Board, stated that the complaints raise questions about whether the episode 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, public morals, or are otherwise objectionable.”
The MTRCB also instructed the respondents to submit proof of authority authorizing their representatives to appear before the committee. It added that failure to attend the scheduled hearing would be considered a waiver of their right to present evidence, and the case would be resolved based on the records available to the Board.
Prior to the MTRCB’s announcement, Vice Ganda publicly apologized during the July 25 episode of ‘It’s Showtime’, acknowledging that some viewers found the jokes offensive or insensitive. The comedian said the show’s intention was never to offend its audience and assured viewers that the production team would strive to be more mindful in future episodes.
