By Jodi Bustos
Eagle News Service
QUEZON CITY, Philippines (Eagle News) – Upholding traditional Filipino values in the children’s media was the focus of the 5th Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) Family and Child Summit (FCS) held on Saturday, Dec. 2.
Secondary students from different schools, the senior citizens, partners from the public and private sectors, and members of the media gathered in this annual event spearheaded by the MTRCB, a Philippine government agency under the Office of the President that is responsible for the classification and review of television programs, movies, and home videos.
This year’s celebration centered on the theme: “Sakay na Pamilyang Pinoy! Byaheng Media, Byaheng MTRCB: Upholding and Passing on Filipino Tradition and Values in Media for Children.”
MTRCB chairperson Rachel Arenas explained how the yearly event would benefit the youth
“This yearly event provides its audiences an avenue for collaboration among stakeholders such as the film and television industry, the youth, senior citizens, members of the family and partner agencies to synergize towards the promotion of cherished Filipino values, customs, and traditions in media for children,” explained Arenas.
She said that MTRCB is planning to maximize their campaign through their flagship program, “Matalinong at Mapanuring Panonood”, where they will tour different schools in the Philippines to promote intelligent and discerning viewership, especially to the students.
“This time we will invite resource speakers just like Director Jose Reyes, so we can leave something (values) with the next generation,” Arenas continued.
Aside from Jose Javier Reyes, a renowned director, writer, professor and TV host in the Philippine media industry, another speaker in the MTRCB’s campaign tour will include Manu “Mr. Speaks” Respall, a motivational speaker, actor, and director.
Reyes talked about the role of media in the time of change, and the social media as a catalyst for change.
“Media is the new parent; children learn from media,” Reyes said.
On the other hand, Respall urged the youth to be responsible for using any form of media.
“You know what is right and wrong. Take what is good and throw what is bad and then create more from the good that you took and inspire your other friends,” he said.
“Teach them what your parents told you, pay it forward. Speak up because the world will listen to you because you are the youth, you are the future!” Respall added.
Showbiz Personalities share insights and helpful tips
Meanwhile, popular faces in the show business industry shared helpful tips and insights on proper television viewing habits that will uphold Filipino values during the event’s panel discussion.
Among the panel speakers were Bernadette Estrada and her 11-year-old daughter, Gabbi Estrada; Matet De Leon; Angel Aquino; Nonie Buencamino; and many more.
During the discussion, the celebrities shared their unique ways of how they guided their children in choosing the right shows or programs to watch. They also related how they explained inappropriate scenes for kids such as kissing, violence and intimate scenes.
According to Matet De Leon, a Filipina actress, “it is better for parents to talk to their children to understand them well.”
“Communication is important. Don’t think that they will never understand you,” Buencamino seconded.
Gabbi Estrada also asked her fellow youth to: “spend more time with your family because when we grow up, we’re not going to be with them anymore.”
Another speaker, Cathy Sanchez Babao, a noted columnist, author, children’s advocate and grief coach, shared inspirational talks with the youth and ways to uphold children’s values in media.
After this, Anak TV Foundation President, Ms. Elvira Yap Go introduced and presented the video entries in the recent Sinebata video festival.
Aiza Seguerra, Chairperson of the National Youth Commission (NYC) also discussed the Sine Kabataan Short Film Competition and showed some Sine Kabataan child-oriented films to the audience.
Another highlight of the event is the conferment of awards to the winners of the FCS Pre-summit activities which included poster-making and photo contests.
The winning entries were displayed outside the hall through a gallery board.